The Times They Are a-Changin’
“To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1
“What is your name?”, I asked a patient in the Alzheimer’s unit where I visit once a month. “My name is *Ellen,” she replied, “but it will change.”
Apparently, there are those who know they have dementia and those who do not. Ellen is in the first category but seems to take it in stride.
I decided to leave the conversation at that but wondered what this kindly woman had once done for a living. Judging by her answer, she could have been a famous philosopher.
The scripture above says life is GUARANTEED to change–just like the seasons. It’s beyond our control; Summer turns to Fall and Winter is next. All one can do is prepare for the inevitable.
Is it just me, or does the free acceptance of fate sound a little depressing? Maybe that’s why, in this age of social media, there aren’t many “Ellen’s” posting about themselves with brutal honesty on Facebook or sharing unvarnished self-truths on Twitter.
Who wants to be vulnerable?
Yet, in my new friend at the Alzheimer’s unit, there seemed to be no fear of embarrassing exposure. Ellen, even in her present condition, is keeping it REAL.
Going forward, I intend to do likewise.
Prayer:
God, you know the way I feel, you knew it from the start.
Show me what’s really REAL; guide and guard my heart. AMEN
*Not the same name she said–to protect her privacy.
David Duncan is an elementary music teacher in Oklahoma. He has a bachelor’s degree in music from Cameron University, and a master’s degree in religious education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is currently pursuing a second master’s in educational leadership.
David is an ordained Southern Baptist minister. He was a full-time minister for 14 years before becoming a teacher in 2004.
He enjoys writing music. In addition to his 39 self-published songs, he also has written 215 blog posts found at the link below. You can find his music videos found at the link below.
Blog: https://davidsdailydose.org/
Music Videos: https://youtube.com/channel/UC3HDgrpsLaCYywrOvknFygA
Photo by Kalen Emsley on Unsplash
Like Ellen we need to accepting of what is coming our way, today and tomorrow. As children of God we have no real need to fret; He has our days planned for us.
Thank you for this thoughtful post David, God bless you and yours today brother