Facing Seventy , October 21, 2024 345 words

This week, I will turn 70. Taking a cue from several friends and family, I started six months ago to say I was seventy. In biblical scripture, the number 70 is seen as perfection or completion. The seventh birthday is considered a milestone in many cultures. It is a time to reflect on life’s. achievements and to look forward to new areas of growth.
Though my body is slowing as are my thoughts, I find I am growing spiritually. There is time to medicate and reflect on empathy for others in my virtual circle of friends.
Being still and listening to spiritual direction from my creator and others put in my daily interactions keeps me involved in the world.
Writing e-mails, phoning friends and being present in virtual and in person meetings is my way to contribute to other’s days.
Recently, John and I were grocery shopping. We walk with a cart and holding hands. We are a slow wide obstruction. John notes that many people pull their carts and children aside to allow us to pass by. A few may hurry ahead to get in line first. I remember we are retired and don’t have a time constraint. When the time for the peace greeting is given in church. I always hug my husband then extend my hand to others that I can’t see. If no one takes my hand, the peace returns to me. Many people approach us with my extended offered hand. to us to receive peace.
Finally, today is National Babble Day. During the celebration of the Mass, vocalizations, cries and babbles of the babies joyous sounds mingle with adult prayers to be an offering of the congregation to rise to the heavens. Next time you hear a baby’s cry, or a toddler’s questions, talking in a loud volume, smile and recall we all have hurdles to learn to communicate.
***. Poem
Babble
babbling brook mixed with bird songs
sidewalk murmurings pass by.
nature’s coos and warbles
But the sweetest sounds are
Babies joyful cries.
carolaspot@aol.com copyrighted 10/21/2024