One of my favorite pastimes while waiting in airports is to watch people interact with each other either deplaning or boarding. A few days ago I was touched by the following scene. An elderly gentleman was wheeled to the waiting area to board a plan. He was followed closely by a group of people whom I assumed to be his family. One person in particular, evidently his son, caught my attention. He was probably 35 years old. He helped the elderly man to a seat. He hovered over him, talking to him with his arm around him until they were ready to board the plane. The younger man helped him into the wheelchair again; there was embracing and handshaking by all members of the family.
I was just an observer, but I could not help but sense the love and honor demonstrated by this man for his elderly relative. What a powerful example for the little boy who was there also. What a lesson for all of us who observed. We need to respect and honor our senior citizens. Proverbs 16:31 says, “The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness” Job 12:12 adds, “With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days understanding.”
The average life span today for women is 86, and for men 74. People are living longer; there are more senior citizens around. Thus there are more opportunities to show respect by our actions and deeds. Let’s show them we love, honor and respect them.
Moments With the Master