Showing Up

By Michele Francisco, OWP editor For two years during college, I lived next to Mrs. Holmes. She was in her 70s (or maybe 80s) and had spent more than 40 years in her Westwood apartment. Most days, she planned a single outing: bank, grocery store, dress shop, pharmacy or lunch with a friend. As a young college student juggling classes, writing papers and working a part-time job, I was a little jealous of Mrs. Holmes’ schedule.   As my parents grow older, I find they need more help navigating daily life. With less energy, everyday tasks feel almost monumental in scale. I realize now, Mrs. Holmes had developed a rhythm and routine to match her stamina. I’m visiting them in California right now. My time here is always busy. I accompany my parents to their medical appointments, help automate their finances so bills are paid on time, declutter and sort through what seems like a metric ton of paperwork and mail. All while managing my own work and responsibilities. I&rsqu

by Hilary Berg · source ↗