I’m returning from a trip out to Seattle to help my 85 year old father move in to an assisted living facility. My brother and sister and our significant others have spent the weekend sorting through our past. Remembering special experiences attached to certain household items, and trying to decide what to keep and what to give away. It was a great time of sharing memories though it was rushed by the burden of needing to get everything moved over the weekend. Only so much time allowed for reminiscing.
Prior to going, I shared with many others about the challenge of moving my father into assisted living. They all shared their horror stories of parents who were extremely resistant even to the point of flat refusal. We are fortunate, Dad is glad to be moving from independent living to assisted living. He shared that at first it was hard to accept, but that when he considered that someone else cooks all your meals, cleans your living area, and organizes lots of social events and excursions, he couldn’t think of a down side. This attitude certainly made the move a whole lot more enjoyable.
But as I reflected on the plane ride home, I asked the question, “With so many upsides to assisted living, why do so many of us resist it?” God constantly promises us assistance in life. Isaiah 41:10 says, “fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Jesus promises a Helper in the Holy Spirit. (John 14-16)
So why are we so resistant? We all know we need help. God knows we need help. So why do we resist? Is it pride? Is that it? We know we can’t handle it, but we certainly don’t want to admit it and ask for help. What will others say? Probably, “Whew, he finally figured it out.” We all need help.
So thank the Lord for the benefits of assisted living and accept His assistance.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present HELP in trouble.” – Psalms 46:1
Tom Reynolds