To Our Seniors, With Love
Welcome to February friends!
Since February is known for the month in which we celebrate love, it seems appropriate to acknowledge the way in which it is reflected in the things we do at SKIP. There may be many definitions of love, but my favourite is the theological definition, "agape" stemming from the greek definition meaning "brotherly love" or "love for mankind". This kind of love is separate from the romantic love that is acknowledged at this particular time of year. Regarded by Christians to be the love of God for man and the love of man for God, agape represents the highest form of love that can be found on earth and beyond. It is this love and compassion for the needs of seniors and the desire to contribute to their overall wellbeing that serves as the driving force behind the work we do at SKIP.
I love the ancient Japanese proverb which states, "He who treads the path of love walks a thousand meters as if it were only one" and this is true of the path that we are walking at SKIP. It has been a labour of love to work to discover creative ways to adapt programming, develop new initiatives and to unite students with seniors in the community in remote ways. By focusing on on digital media content, we have extended both our creative capacities and our reach. A lot of love has gone into updating our website and social media platforms. University students are sharing their knowledge on topics that are relevant for senior health such us how to combat loneliness and isolation, the power of connection and purpose as well as tips to practice living well during pandemic times. Over the next few weeks, SKIP will be sharing a series of educational blogs that highlight intergenerational perspectives on a variety of fun and interesting topics. Students coming from social work education backgrounds will be digging into our programs and finding creative ways to connect the generations in remote ways while simultaneously reaching out to explore the self-determined needs of the aging population in our community. Buzz Me continues to grow and with a series of initiatives in the works to increase this program's reach, the SKIP team is...buzzing!
As we celebrate love at this particular time of year, may we remember that the greatest and best expression of love can be found when we strive to serve those around us. By working diligently to keep seniors connected in the community, and by seeking to uncover the precious gifts that can be found within intergenerational relationships in our circles, we can discover an enormous wellspring of love for ourselves and for each other. Let's face it...we all kinda need that.
With love,
Tina