The seasons of our life
It’s currently Sunday evening in the dead of Winter. Anyone living north of central Florida who steps outside tomorrow morning will likely encounter ice, snow, or unusually cold temperatures. This Winter storm, named Fern, has affected over 200 million Americans, spanning more than two thousand miles — earning its place in the record books.
I’ve always appreciated the changing seasons. While many of us look forward to Spring during harsh weather, Summer’s heat soon makes us yearn for cooler days. Fall gradually leads into Winter, and with each Winter storm, the desire for change begins anew.
Life also moves in cycles. Youth is full of curiosity and excitement, as we seek answers to everything. Over time, we may start to think we know it all.
Adulthood often comes quickly; if fortunate, we find a partner to share life’s ups and downs. We raise our children, watch them leave, and the cycle continues.
Many individuals spend years with their spouse or on their own and may experience the pleasure of welcoming grandchildren or engaging in other fulfilling activities. As time progresses and life’s tempo slows, people often travel, retire, establish new contacts, or pursue meaningful interests to enrich their later years.
Life is complex and unique to each person, shaped by countless variables. While many events are beyond our control, our choices and responses to change also determine our paths.
About fourteen years ago, my mother, Jobie Ponder, decided to start a new chapter by relocating to Atlanta and settling into Huntcliff Summit, an independent living community on Roswell Road, close to the Chattahoochee River. She made this choice completely on her own and had already signed the lease before I was even aware she was considering the move. My sister lived two miles away.
My mom has always valued her independence and making her own choices. Huntcliff Summit was a great fit, giving her opportunities to meet new friends and enjoy life together, especially during happy hour before dinner.
I lived with my mother and father for 18 years before leaving for college. She lived almost as long with her Huntcliff friends. I met many of them, spoke at some gatherings, and shared my weekly column with the residents in recent years.
As time went by, my mother eventually became the oldest person ever in our direct family line. Known for her competitive spirit, Jobie has lived longer than every relative she’s ever known — her parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and even her husband, my father.
My mom is both proud and amazed to have lived longer than anyone else in her family. She often says, “I don’t feel like I’m almost 94,” which may be the secret to her happiness.
After a year of cancer treatment, Jobie now needs a little extra help. She hesitated to leave Huntcliff because of her cherished friendships, including the kind staff, many of whom have been there as long as she has.
Jobie reluctantly moved next door to the assisted living facility called Huntcliff Summit II. While her new apartment is smaller, it is thoughtfully arranged to accommodate her needs.
After we finished moving her, I realized that the final step was for Jobie to accept and, more importantly, to embrace the transition. She’s always looked ahead, and I hoped she would do so again — for her own good.
On her first morning, she said the breakfast eggs were the best she’d ever had, which gave me hope. By the second day, she was joking with caregivers, and by the third, she attended her first physical therapy session.
A few of her close friends, who lived in the building next door, stopped by. They too saw a difference in my mother’s appearance. She appeared healthier, more energetic, and much more like her usual self.
I’m delighted with how well my mother is settling in. She’s open to new experiences and forming new friendships. Although she initially disliked physical therapy at the neighboring facility, she’s now attending sessions five days a week. Her current aim is to be able to stand up on her own when leaving the dining room. In just two weeks, her physical progress has been remarkable, and I’m confident she’ll reach her goal.
As I have entered my early 70s, I truly appreciate how fortunate I am to see my mother embracing her challenges once more. She is carving out a space for herself and making it her own in every way possible. With determination, she faces the future and moves forward with optimism.
On her behalf, and on behalf of her children, I want to thank the residents and staff of Huntcliff for making her last 14 years so wonderful. The staff made her life one of independence and purpose. They also managed her departure with grace and dignity.
If you’re nearby, drop by to see Jobie on a pleasant day as the seasons change once again. It is hard to believe she watched 55 seasons change while living at Huntcliff Summit I. You’ll be greeted by her warm smile and newfound determination. I’m sure she’ll rise on her own from her chair to welcome you.
o0o
Dan Ponder can be reached at [email protected]