Interesting title, isn’t it? Maybe you clicked on it wondering if I knew someone who had died.
This article is mostly written for younger people, and I’m writing it about older people. I have no specific stats, but I would assume the average age of people reading my blog is not old (under 50 to be sure).
My challenge tonight? If you’re younger, it’s likely that you haven’t had a close friend die.
First, about close friends. Yes, I have close friends. I have relationships that I treasure. I’m human, and like anyone else, I need close friends. Yes, I’m a pastor, but human is a broader category. I have had close friends at various stages throughout life, and I assume I will continue to enjoy good relationships as long as I live.
The one thing can’t relate to is what it’s like to lose a close friend.
But older people can.
Think about the phase of life that begins maybe in your 60’s and continues over 20+ years as friend after friend after friend dies. I’m sure you’d say it’s hard to imagine that. I think it’s something we overlook when we think about the elderly. Maybe it’s easy to get down on an older person for being grumpy, or hanging on too tightly to the past. I’d say part of that deserves some compassion.
Can we be honest and say it’s got to be rough to lose people you’ve known for a long time?
I remember seeing the pain on the face of a man who lost his friend – of about 60 years. It was a gut wrenching pain, a pain I’ve not experienced. In time, I can only hope God will give me the grace to handle those difficult transitions and seasons. Or, maybe He’ll take me early so I won’t have to go through it!
Think. How hard is it for you to muster up compassion for those older than you?
Act. The most encouraging thing you can do is get to know someone in the elderly age bracket. They will appreciate the intentionality and care.