Day 1375

Visiting with senior citizens is typically predictable and unsurprising. However, now-and-then, they can amazr you. Today was one of those days.

Spending time with my band director (and another dear “Bandie”) from the 1970s, Gus and I were in the Game Room when we were joined by an athletic coach from the same era. The conversation shifted to an upcoming meeting in the facility that would celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Suddenly, “Coach” (92 years old) broke into song with a beautiful baritone voice that held us in awe. “Danny Boy” echoed down the hallway and even Gus sat mesmerized. After we applauded his concert, I found myself in awe of his talent and total lack of self consciousness in the setting!

Why do some of us often have to wait until the ninth decade of life to push away any shyness and share our gifts? The only thing that came to mind was people, like “Coach” must have had some amazing cheerleaders in life. Building confidence and strength in others is a gift we can all offer. A kind word of encouragement, a note of congratulations or showing up to cheer them on is free and something we can all do!

Get those pom-poms out and fill lives with encouragement. Confidence does not have to wait until 92-years-of-age!