Support your public library

I read a post on FaceBook that showed public libraries' impact on our community. My summary is here: 

 Public libraries are more than just buildings filled with books; they are lifelines, offering hope, education, and community to people from all walks of life. The recent New York Times article highlighting the “crisis of violence and abuse” faced by librarians underscores how much these tireless professionals endure to create safe, welcoming spaces for everyone. It’s a stark reminder of why we must rally around our libraries and those who dedicate their lives to them.

Take Wendy, who began her library career in 1970. She encountered a little girl determined to teach herself how to read by memorizing pages from the same book every day. Wendy’s intervention changed the course of that child’s life, helping her access opportunities for gifted students. Misty’s father, a lifelong library user, taught himself Spanish with library books, bridging cultural divides and forming meaningful connections.

For Emilio, the library became a source of healing and determination after losing his brother. Armed with a repair manual, he restored an old car in his brother's memory, proving the transformative power of self-learning. Brenda, who left school after a devastating loss, credits libraries with helping her earn her GED and become an advocate for others facing similar hurdles.

Regina, a librarian for 39 years, found joy in teaching essential skills—from literacy to navigating the internet—empowering individuals to better their lives. One of her patrons, an elderly man, wept when she showed him how to access a photo of his newborn grandchild. These moments highlight the personal connections librarians forge every day.

For some, like the anonymous library patron who faced abuse at home, the library was a sanctuary. A kind librarian provided resources and love and support, showing how libraries can be places of refuge and resilience.

These stories illustrate the profound impact public libraries and librarians have on individual lives and communities. Libraries are not just about books; they are about building brighter futures. Supporting them means ensuring these life-changing stories continue to unfold for generations to come. Visit your library, thank your librarian, and advocate for their invaluable work. Their dedication deserves our respect and unwavering support.

What is meditation?

 Meditation isn’t about transforming into someone you’re not or diving into mysterious practices. It’s about getting back to yourself—your real, peaceful self. For many people, retirement brings a mix of joys and challenges, and learning to quiet the noise in your mind can open the door to more ease and clarity.

One of the simplest—and most powerful—ways to start meditating is to focus on your breathing. You don’t need to sit in a special position or chant; just find a comfortable seat, close your eyes, and pay attention to each breath. Feel the air as it enters and leaves your body. You might notice your shoulders relax and your heart feel lighter as you go. This isn’t magic; it’s just giving your mind a chance to settle and reconnect with the calm that’s always there, waiting.

If you’ve ever found yourself worrying about things outside your control or replaying moments from the past, consider this: life is always changing. Taking time to reflect on impermanence—the fact that nothing stays the same forever—can bring a surprising sense of peace. This isn’t about being sad or overwhelmed; it’s about appreciating the beauty of the present moment and letting go of unhelpful attachments.

You might also enjoy walking meditation. Imagine strolling through a park or backyard, focusing on each step you take. Feel your feet touching the ground, notice the breeze, or listen to the birds. Walking meditation is great because it combines gentle movement with mindfulness, making it especially appealing if sitting still feels daunting.

For some, meditation becomes a tool for inner strength. Think of it as a way to soften the grip of negative emotions like anger or worry. By quietly observing your thoughts—without judgment—you give yourself the gift of freedom from their weight. This doesn’t mean suppressing your feelings; it’s about understanding them better and making space for what truly matters.

Meditation is deeply personal. You don’t need to adopt any particular belief system or label yourself as a practitioner of this or that method. What matters is finding a practice that helps you feel more grounded, less stressed, and more connected to your sense of purpose. If the idea of a “spiritual guide” feels too far out, think of it as simply listening to your heart.

And remember, it’s okay to ask for help. Meditation instructors or even online videos can gently guide you as you get started. The goal isn’t to master some ancient tradition but to create space in your life for stillness and renewal.

So, if you’re skeptical, that’s fine, it’s healthy to question things. But give yourself permission to explore. You might find that meditation is less about wasting time and more about reclaiming it. After all, the time you spend caring for your mind and spirit is never wasted.

Support your local Foodbank

S tart the New Year with Kindness: Support Your Local Food Bank This January

As the holiday season fades and the new year begins, many of us are filled with hope, resolutions, and plans for the months ahead. But for countless individuals and families in our community, January brings a harsh reality—empty cupboards and the continued struggle to put food on the table. While the spirit of giving often peaks during the holidays, the need for support doesn’t end when the decorations come down. That’s why January is the perfect time to rally behind your local food bank and make a lasting impact.

Food banks play a crucial role in fighting hunger, providing essential groceries and supplies to those in need. For many, these organizations are a lifeline, offering not just nourishment but also a sense of dignity and hope. However, after the holiday rush, donations often dwindle, leaving shelves bare and food banks struggling to keep up with demand. This is where your generosity can truly shine.

Supporting your local food bank in January is a simple yet powerful way to give back. It’s a chance to extend the spirit of the holidays into the new year, making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Donations of non-perishable food items like canned vegetables, pasta, rice, and peanut butter are always welcome. If you’re unsure what’s needed most, a quick call or visit to your food bank’s website can provide helpful guidelines.

If you prefer to give financially, your contributions can stretch even further. Food banks often have partnerships with suppliers, allowing them to purchase food at a fraction of retail prices. A donation of just a few dollars can provide meals for several families. Many food banks also accept online donations, making it easier than ever to support their efforts.

Not everyone can give money or food, and that’s okay—your time is just as valuable. Volunteering at a food bank is a rewarding experience, offering the chance to sort donations, pack food boxes, or even help with distribution. You’ll not only lend a helping hand but also connect with others who share your commitment to making a difference.

When you support a food bank, you’re doing more than providing meals; you’re offering comfort, stability, and hope to those who need it most. Your kindness helps parents feed their children, seniors stretch their limited budgets, and individuals facing unexpected hardships regain their footing.

So as you step into the new year, consider how you can make January a month of kindness and community care. Whether through a donation, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about the importance of food banks, your actions have the power to bring warmth and sustenance to your neighbours in need.

Let’s start 2025 by coming together to build stronger, more compassionate communities—one meal at a time. Visit your local food bank today to see how you can help, and make this January a month to remember for all the right reasons.

Ageing in Place: Vocational Wellness

 Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational.

Vocational Wellness

A sense of purpose brings fulfillment. For many of us, vocational wellness might involve mentoring. Retirement is often seen as a time to relax and enjoy life’s freedoms but for some of my cohorts, it can feel like stepping away from a sense of purpose, leading to a feeling of being “retired from life.” The truth is, having a purpose—something meaningful to look forward to each day—can bring incredible fulfillment and even add years to your life. The good news is, that finding that sense of purpose doesn’t mean going back to work or taking on responsibilities that feel overwhelming. It’s about discovering small, meaningful ways to stay engaged with the world around you.

Consider what made you feel accomplished or connected. Those same activities—or new ones that spark your curiosity—can still bring joy and meaning. For example, mentoring someone younger in your community or sharing your life experiences with a group can be rewarding. You don’t have to be an expert or even commit a lot of time; just offering guidance or listening to someone can make a difference for both of you.

Volunteering is another wonderful way to reawaken that sense of purpose. You might help at a local library, food bank, or animal shelter. These opportunities allow you to contribute to causes that resonate with you while meeting new people and feeling part of something larger. Volunteering doesn’t just help the community; it can give you a reason to get out of bed each day with a smile and a sense of anticipation.

If structured activities aren’t your style, rediscovering hobbies can be just as fulfilling. Maybe you used to paint, garden, or fix things around the house but set those interests aside over the years. Picking them up again—or trying something entirely new—can reignite a sense of accomplishment and creativity. Imagine the satisfaction of seeing a project come to life, whether it’s a painting, a thriving garden, or even a model airplane. These activities bring a quiet joy that nourishes the soul and fills your days with purpose.

Even if you’re not interested in traditional contributions to society, finding purpose is about realizing your value in the world and your ability to make a difference, no matter how small it may seem. Think of the ripple effect: smiling at a neighbour, sharing a meal with a friend, or writing a letter to someone you care about can create connections and warmth that spread far beyond what you might imagine.

Studies have shown that having a purpose is linked to better health, increased happiness, and even a longer life. It’s not about doing grand things; it is about finding meaning in your daily actions and interactions. When you engage with life—whether through mentoring, volunteering, pursuing a hobby, or simply being present for others—you’re actively enriching your own life in ways that bring profound joy and fulfillment.

A retired teacher, for instance, could find joy in tutoring children or sharing wisdom through storytelling. Organizations like VolunteerMatch connect seniors with opportunities to give back, while platforms like Etsy enable them to turn hobbies into rewarding ventures.

Over the last few posts, I have talked about the six dimensions that empower us to age in place. I believe that understanding these six dimensions empowers seniors and caregivers to create a balanced approach to aging in place. When all areas are nurtured, we experience greater joy, resilience, and independence. Caregivers, too, gain insight into addressing their loved one's needs comprehensively, fostering a deeper, more meaningful connection.

By integrating these dimensions into daily life and leveraging helpful tools, we can truly age in place with grace and confidence, surrounded by the support and understanding we deserve.