“Ageism is a denial of you as a person, and like all other forms of rejection makes you feel sad, angry or useless. Get enough of it, and you start to shrink inside.” -Polly, a campaign supporter of Age Without Limits
This past week, in the online depth immersion I am participating in, alongside a wonderful cohort of kindred souls, we were guided through a meditative practice in which we were giving tender care to a range of versions of ourselves, from infancy to our present self. In this practice, it occurred to me just how ageist of a culture we live in. When I pay attention, I witness evidence of this often, from the dialogue of what it means to age, forgetting that worth is inherent, to the way I see people treating children, sometimes with much impatience and dominance.
This reminded me that it is possible to treat my adult self, as well as the adults around me, with increasing compassion and tenderness, the kind of nurturance I’d give to an infant without thinking. I get to affirm to those around me that they don’t need to be strong or productive to be loveable. It also reminded me that I can offer both my very young self, and the younger ones around me, the dignity to be patiently listened to, remembering to pause to reflect on the wisdom there.
Today and always, may we make intentional efforts to shift our culture to one of connection and companionship over control and coercion. Let us create space for one another’s defenselessness and listen with reverence to the most vulnerable among us. Grant us the patience to seek solutions before blame, and understanding before solutions. May we recognize our cyclical nature and love one another well through all ages.
Upcoming Happenings:
- Young Adult Luncheon in the UUFM Fellowship Hall, Sunday, April 19th, 12-1pm (Changed the date a second time due to April 12th being the regular luncheon)
No RSVP necessary, vegan/gluten-free options will be available. Please email Macey with any questions or concerns - Mindful Movement (Gentle Yoga) in the UUFM Sanctuary, Mondays in April at 11am
RSVP: https://uufm.breezechms.com/form/06c0e932739718 - Mending and Upcycling Gathering, Wednesday, April 22nd, 6:30-8pm
See Breeze link description for more details.
RSVP here: https://uufm.breezechms.com/form/6cdfb9