National Senior Citizens' Day

August 21st is National Senior Citizens Day. Current statistics say there are almost 50 million seniors 65 or older in the United States and nearly 1 billion worldwide. At one time, these citizens garnered much respect. However, gradually society is beginning to look at what they aren't able to do anymore rather than what they can do and their vast knowledge and wealth of experience.

There is a delightful lady, Jewel Tolson, living in a nearby town to me who just turned 107 on July 4th. She is still sharp-witted, full of laughter, and fun to be around. The former oldest person in the world just died in Indonesia in May. He was 146 and may hold the record of being the oldest man to ever live in modern times. Now, Violet Brown of Jamaica is the oldest living person at 117.

Regrettably, there are many forgotten seniors living in nursing facilities with no visitors. Going by and saying hello to some of the residents would be a great way to celebrate the day. In fact, a character in one of my books does just that and ends up adopting a senior friend. That friendship was special to both Isaac Jackson and Jobe Hamilton in Promise. Maybe you could find one special to you.

(All my profits from my books go to a scholarship fund for missionary children.)

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