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This photo was taken this past week as the Jewels of de Nial performed to a group of senior citizens. This would be my last gig as a performer in the group. I parked in the parking lot and thought I was so lucky to get a handicapped space. The fact was, we had been told to enter at the front door which was on the street. One of my fellow performers was right behind me and reminded me that we’d have to walk to the front. No problem, right? She grabbed my gear and offered her hand, but I stubbornly refused. By the time we got to the top of the hill, I was breathless. The fact that I was huffing and puffing by then, reminded me why I was going into retirement as an actor. I’ve always been kindly assigned a chair for all our shows in the past. This time I thought I’d need a stretcher. Actually, I recovered and was able to go on with the show.

We were invited to join in the group’s celebration of the harvest meal, which was delicious. Appetizers included herring and pickled beets. The soup was made from acorn squash, with the main course consisting of the best carrots I’ve ever eaten in my life and a couple different types of perogies. I had the honor of sitting next to a woman of ninety-one. She was absolutely stunning. Her white hair was perfectly coiffed. Her nails were manicured and polished. The only disability I could notice was her difficulty in speaking. I soon learned she had an issue with her vocal cords. Otherwise, she seemed in perfect health. The others at our table were involved in their own conversation, so she and I began discussing the problems we face as we age. She told me of her own personal tragedies. Her husband had died as well as her two sons – both dying very young and right at the beginning of their careers. She had a premonition about the second son’s passing. As she revealed her story, I could see it brought back the sadness as she had difficulty finishing the sentence. Tears began to form in her eyes. I gently put my hand on hers and she continued on. That simple gesture gave her the strength to carry on with her story. I also could instantly relate to her sadness.

As I think about my five years with this group, I couldn’t help but think about the blessings I’ve received through it. I’ve grown very close to the women involved. We have become a true support group for each other through some difficult times. We also had the opportunity to go into the community and show those who are aging, that life doesn’t end when you get older. It is just the beginning for many of us. We were able to turn some tough obstacles into something to laugh about with our antics on stage.

A new week is about to begin. A new chapter will also start. I will have many more opportunities to bring laughter to others – to share my experiences – to touch a nerve – to help someone through a difficult time – to let others know that life is really about doing God’s work. It doesn’t matter what our gifts are but how we use them. He has blessed each of us with many talents. My voice is heard through the writing I do. I pray that it will be used for God’s glory. Like a gentle touch, a comforting word, a show of interest or just listening, we can make a difference in someone’s life.

My character’s name was Pearl, as you can see by the abundance of pearls I am wearing. It has been a great run.