The word tolerance comes to mind

   

  Here I am, still trying to get used to the convenience of living in a retirement facility, where many services are so available. 

   I just came from having my flu shot, downstairs.    

Living here, surrounded by aging friends, all with unique personalities, the word “tolerance” comes to mind. 

     Not only the many seniors here, having to live out its meaning, but, listening to the daily news — much more broad-mindedness  and acceptance of each other is needed in our wonderful, but sometimes crazy world. 

   It is easy to become frustrated when others act or say things contrary to our own way of thinking. Seniors, who usually have all the time in the world, can get impatient when their needs are not met ASAP. 

   Most of the guests and staff I have met here are kind and respectful of each other, trying to practice that virtue. 

   Certainly we all need understanding and love. Jesus knew our frailties when He said, “My command is this; Love each other as I have loved you.” (John 15: 12). 

     “Love, God’s love in us, does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy, fretful or resentful; it keeps no record of wrongs.” 

— 1 Corinthians 13:5

   If I am to love all people, God will have to help transform the way I think of others. I can believe the worst about them, or choose to believe the best. It’s my choice. 

   When disagreements occur, we can often diffuse them by giving up our right to be right. Each of us will answer to the Lord, not only for our opinions, but also, for how we treat one another in our differences. 

   Romans 14:10 -12 says it clearly: “You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. It is written, 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord, every knee will bow before me, every tongue will acknowledge God. So then, each of us will give an account to God. Therefore, let us stop passing judgment on one another.” 

   Wow! Our deportment before others then, is very important. 

   The management and staff here at our Okanagan Chateau, continue to provide excellent care. 

   Recently, we enjoyed a surprise, noon luncheon, where we were served a variety of Chinese dishes from our local Asian Pear Restaurant. 

   

   Later, we were entertained by Ali K. Zam, an excellent juggler, who kept us spellbound.
   Many quite expensive prizes were given away through draws. 
   The staff continues to find varied ways to keep life interesting for the many residents here. 

   Occasionally, my aging body suggests I should temporarily restrict my activities. As I think back to some of those earlier times when my daily schedule was always so demanding, these now, quiet, retirement days would have been very difficult to imagine.  

   

   “When He takes your work away and bids you no longer do good and obedient things, but only to be good and obedient, surely this is not the death of faith. 

   That may be faith’s transfiguration. You can be idle for Him, if so He wills, with the same joy with which you once laboured for Him. 

   Until later, may you find yourselves enjoying the beauty of these colourful, and delightful autumn days."

— beulah