Barbara Walters had a special on not so long ago about how scientists are supposedly on the verge of finding the secrets to longevity. She interviewed countless number of doctors, scientists and everyday folks whose methods of living a long life were being put into motion. Reportedly, there are 78,000 people over 100 years old living today. In one segment, a scientist stated that if we were to drink 1000 bottles of wine a day , it would be comparable to that rare anti-aging producing miracle protein found in red wine.

The quest to stay young and live longer seems in opposition to what it means to grow old with grace and dignity.My work with the elderly have taught me grace, compassion, humility and patience. I'm not going to say that all geriatrics, or, older people are pleasant...I have met many bitter, angry and snarling old folk, but, there's always, in my mind, a reason for bouts of unpleasantness and mean spiritedtedness, so I just dig my heels in and vow to try that much harder to win them over...

This determination works because I ask "How are you today?" It works because I take time to sit and wait for an answer. I make eye contact...I listen in sincerity to what the elder have to say. I touch hands...offer comfort and fulfill promises to come again.

I am a nurse whose chosen profession allows that I care for my patients...yet, I am more than a nurse in that I'm knowing that my patients; These wise, elderly people who are sick and dependent upon others for their wellbeing were once young, vibrant; with hopes and dreams...Lived lives some of us can only imagine and they are so willing to share their stories, if only we take a seat offered us...

I believe passionately in the wisdom of the elders. They make me want to become a better me...