Spring will soon surround the ViewPointe assisted living community. With spring comes many new growing things. Baby animals are synonymous with the Easter season for a reason: It sometimes seems like the entire world is being reborn.
But the new buds and flowers — the spring chicks and baby bunnies — don't just represent newness. They represent growth. The world is always growing, but it's in spring that it's most clear to our eyes.
Spring is a great time to consider your own growth, too. The changes around us can remind us that we are still growing and changing, no matter what age we are or where we live. In fact, one of the best things about an assisted living community is that growth and change are supported. You can reach out to staff if you need help managing a physical or mental change, and you can grow with others as you try out new activities and social opportunities.
Not sure how you feel about all this growth? Check out what the Bible has to say.
2 Peter 3:18 reminds us that there's one way to grow that's better, and that's in Christ. The verse says, "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen."
Growing in Jesus means striving to be like him. That doesn't mean you have to be perfect; the Bible is pretty clear that's impossible. So don't set yourself up for failure with a goal that you can't achieve in this lifetime. Instead, work to show grace and learn more about Jesus.
1 Timothy 4:15 says, "Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress."
Progress takes practice. It's tempting to give up on our goals if we don't see immediate results, but seniors know from experience that some of the best things in life take time. Whether you're trying to live a healthier lifestyle, make new friends or compete with existing friends in a card game, don't give up. Just keep immersing yourself in these things and progress will come.
Galatians 6:9 says, "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
This is a well-known verse for a reason. It resonates with many because it's so true. Doing good can be hard and exhausting. That's true in a spiritual sense as you navigate this life and try not to conform to this world. But it's also true in smaller arenas too. Who hasn't grown weary of eating healthy and considered a nice, long binge on chocolate cake or other foods best left to moderation?
Growth doesn't have to be constant, and you don't have to wear yourself to the bone to get it done. There's a reason for winter: many plants take a rest from growing during that time and come back mightier and fuller in the spring.
You can do the same by resting from your good work and growth periodically. Allowing yourself that one piece of cake in the dining hall is much better than depriving yourself for weeks only to break down into a binge eating session one day.
You never grow alone. 1 Samuel 3:19 says, "And Samuel grew, and the Lord was with him and let none of his words fall to the ground."
The Old Testament is filled with stories about God sticking with His prophets through trial and growth. But you don't have to be an OT prophet to enjoy this companionship from God. He gives it to all his children. All you have to do is reach out to Him and accept it. Then, He walks with you as you grow, helping you through the hard parts and rejoicing with you during the spring seasons where new growth comes with easy abundance.
Transitioning to life within an assisted living community can be a big step, so don't worry if you feel like you can't jump right into this new season of growth. Take time to get used to your new environment and make your apartment your new home. Then, try some of these tips for growth in this new season of your life.
Talk to others and make new friends. One of the best places to do this is the dining areas. Simply ask a person or group if you can sit with them for the meal. Conversation usually handles itself once the bread starts breaking.
Try one new activity a month. If you're hesitant to get out of your comfort zone, look at the assisted living activity calendar each month. Decide on one new activity that you will try and make yourself attend. You might not enjoy it, and then you never have to do it again. But you might love it and find out something new about yourself.
Work with the staff on health goals. It's easier to grow in a healthy lifestyle when you have 24-hour support and assistance with developing good diet, exercise and medication habits.
