The Glory of the Aged

Gray hair is a crown of glory. “Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life.” -Proverbs 16:31. Some people fear getting old. But growing old is one of the blessings of God. It should not be seen as weakness or burdensome stage in life. It should be treated with pride and exultation of God’s faithfulness in one’s life. I have always admired old men and women. With their gray hairs and aged countenance, I see life fulfilled in whatever journey they had take. They have that sense of stillness in them. They have the humility and maturity that we cannot gain when we stay young. I have been in awe of their wisdom and resilience too. I praise God for people who grow old with the grace and exultation of this phase in life. Younger men and women should accord that respect to older people which God requires. “You shall stand up before the gray head and honor the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God: I am the Lord.” -Leviticus 19:32. To honor God is to honor the elders too. Show respect and love to them because these are what pleases God. “Do not rebuke an older man but encourage him as you would a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, in all purity.” -1 Timothy 5:1-2.

For this matter, I dedicate this poem to all the aged and the elderly who journeyed life with courage, patience, strength, and love.

When Hairs Turn Golden

There’s that day when strong hands turn weak,

And touching is what they will mostly seek.

When it comes, stand at the side; be the stick.

The guide and support who’s always quick!

🌸

There’s that day when strong knees become feeble.

And walking is a pleasure that’s impossible.

When it comes, stand near; make them able!

Walk with them; be there and be available!

🌸

There’s that day when clear eyes become cloudy,

And seeing things around is difficult and shady.

When it comes, be their eyes to keep them steady.

See for them and show them all that is tidy!

🌸

There’s that day when sharp ears slow to a dwindle,

And hearing is a whisper; a voice that’s so little!

When it comes, be their ear; face their hurdle!

Hear for them; show that life’s getting better!

🌸

There’s that day when dark hairs turn gray; golden!

And the world seems to slow and life’s a burden.

When it comes, be patient and let love be their haven!

Because you’ll also walk the road they’ve taken.