Important Date !!

For several months (in my tiny T@B), I have enjoyed old TV programs like The Waltons and Little House on the Prairie. I was particularly moved by one presentation of Little House. Laura said "We oughta have a funeral while we're still alive so we can say 'goodbye' to everybody." An old lady, approaching her eightieth birthday, heard the comment and saw an opportunity to motivate her children, and grandchildren, to come and see her. Reluctantly, the Ingles' family prepared a Wake; the doctor sent telegrams to the offspring. There was shock and indignation (at the Wake) when Mother threw off her black veil. All ended happily with a birthday cake, fiddle music, and dancing.

Today is my birthday and (over the weeks since the TV drama) I mused about planning a similar ruse. But I want my children and grandchildren to come visit because they really want to see me. It breaks my heart that I am not important to them!! My situation is not unique; I talk to many Seniors who are likewise estranged from their children and grandchildren. We "old folks" remember a different era. We can identify with a family circle like The Waltons.