By Joanne Byrne
Retired and Rejuvenated
Joanne Byrne.
It is that time of year when we pause and give thanks with our friends, our family and our community for all the gracious gifts that have been bestowed on us. We should be doing this every day of our lives, but it is good that at least for one day a year, the whole country pauses to give thanks.
Here are some thoughts for this Thanksgiving.
Let’s share our bounty with those with less. Consider the gift of one week’s grocery bill donated to a community food bank, soup kitchen, homeless shelter, United Way or your favorite charity as a token of appreciation for what we have.
Express gratitude to those who care for others as a profession or as a volunteer. Write a note to someone who is caring for a frail elder or teaching our grandchildren. Respect elected officials for their service. We don’t have to agree with all their policies, but we should respect their service, while still holding them accountable for their actions…or lack of action.
Give time to a worthy cause. Our volunteer investments for the benefit of others build community and provide a great example for our children. Whether we choose to sing in a chorus, serve on a committee, read to a toddler, mentor a youth or visit a lonely elder, our time is a priceless gift which appreciates in value.
Conserve resources by consuming less, reusing and recycling. Preserving our environment is self-preservation and a life-saving gift to wildlife, plant life, and generations to come.
Slow down. Whether behind the steering wheel or in conversations with people, speed is not a good thing. Being in a perpetual hurry endangers lives on the road and cuts short our relationships with others. Actively listening and showing others positive attention is a gift worth giving.
Advocate with assertion, not aggression. Free speech is not an invitation to be offensive. Responsible advocacy requires thoughtful strategy, practical solutions, and effective conversation.
Health is a form of wealth. Making sure we eat right, exercise, and take time to rest and relax are the keys to clear thinking and long-term effectiveness. Our bodies cannot support us unless our minds resolve to take care and be careful.
Last and probably most importantly, take optimism pills every morning – the time-released kind. Negativity is contagious. Those who believe they will make a difference can achieve their goals. Pessimism is the mind’s way of giving up before the first step is taken. The power of one, multiplied and magnified, is the only correct formula for progress.
As we enter the holiday season, let’s realize that there are neighbors, young and old, whose weeks ahead are not brimming with joy. For whatever reason, in whatever circumstances, we know that people in need can be helped if we choose to do so.
As the Talmud says, “If not you, who? If not now, when?”
Happy Thanksgiving!
Joanne Byrne served as Senior Services Coordinator for the Town of Orange. She is now actively and happily retired. Email her at joannebyrne41@gmail.com to share your thoughts on retirement.