Somehow, they forgot to give me, on my 90th birthday, the LITTLE GUIDE BOOK TO THE NINETIES. I laugh a lot at my antics – perhaps a video of my putting my socks on in the morning could earn a great deal if I sold it to Saturday Night Live!
I am covenanted to always be with my phone and my walker, and I lose one or the other every day. I’m constantly calling taxis to take me to doctors, dentists, physical therapists! Just once, I’d love to ask the generous taxi system of Raleigh: Take me to the beach!
I thank God for Mary, who takes me to swim twice a week, for Helen, who buys groceries when I send a list, and drives me to church; for Lois who comes Monday and Thursday – just to sit! FOR Patsy and Chris, who are on call and who have shared their red lounge chair to save me from pain, for George, who prays with me here on Tuesday, for my friend Paula, who is my constant angel, for Nancy, who zooms with me on Fridays, and Ellen, who calls me on Saturdays.
I made a new word: I am not disappointed by inattention, phone calls, or visits because I had no appointment. Instead, I am “disattended”. I need attention as I need air to breathe! I wonder if disattention can be fatal at 90, or at 20 if you are a new mom, or at 50, if you are a new widower?
This blog reminds me to call some old friends. Right now! Or write a note! Or send an email!
Attention must be paid.
JANE VELLA
4 replies on “Disattention – a new word, an old malady”
Disattention. A much needed new word. You don’t need to put on socks, dear Jane, to continue leading people into the light.
At 69 I have been wondering about aging – the body pains, the losing of much needed items, the increase in medical appointments, etc. And I am happy to hear the voice of Jane at 90. It gives me hope and wisdom for my own journey. Thanks
I’m thankful for your writing, Jane. This weekend I reached out to several dear long-time friends and did some catching up. I’m thankful for their friendship, and for all the good the world is blessed with. Blessings to you and thanks again.
Jane, Your writings are a gift. I love your little book, Friends and Family. And you are a gift to Nativity. Sharon Conley
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