Greetings to all. What a nice, cool and breezy day it is here in the Garland area as I write this column. As we enjoy this nice weather, let us not forget those that are suffering in Texas from the flood waters and pray for them. Remember some of us were in the same boat just a few months ago. Let’s bind together and help those less fortunate than we are.

Our sympathy goes out to the Bordeaux family. Reach out during this time. Mrs. Marie Bordeaux was a friend, former participant and a strong Christian lady. We will remember her in song as she would bless us a with,“I am blessed every day that I live, I am blessed, when I wake up in the morning, til I lay my head to rest, I am blessed.” Go rest high on that mountain, “Ree, Ree”.

Just a reminder: computer classes will begin Sept. 5 and there is no charge for these classes. The classes will be held on Tuesday and Thursday, 9-11:30 a.m., and are open to the public. Seating is limited; come join us!

If anyone is interested in doing wills, power of attorney or any legal issues let me know. I can plan a day with a legal aide representative from Raleigh. He can help us with a lot of things, and again there is no charge for this service.

Earlier this week at the center we had moments to share and thank God for His blessings. As I looked around there was a smile on everyone’s face. I began to ask why are you all smiling? It was amazing — some were smiling because they woke up this morning, some because their children came to visit and some said because Marie Faircloth makes me smile. It goes to show we don’t need to have a reason; just smile and the whole world will smile with you. Try and see. Remember a smile is a part of your daily dress. Don’t forget to put it on!

September is Senior Center Month. It is a time to showcase the theme “It’s My Center”. The Senior Center is such a special place. It’s like a home away from home. So many people would be so lonely within the walls of their homes without the center. Folks give testimonies of how coming to the center has helped them from depression. The seniors drink coffee, eat snacks, laugh, share their spiritual moments, play games, watch TV, sew, exercise — all at no charge. It is a place where you can find friends that will last a lifetime.

The center offers a quiet library provided by the “Family Caregiver Support Program. We are planning some great adventures, like taking a ferry ride, going shopping and having a picnic at the Bratzman Residence. Then maybe we will do more shopping at the mall. We plan to stop at the Eagle Island Store, where Ms. Lillie Thomas will buy all the butter and old fashioned ice cream. We invite all seniors to come and join us. “It’s our Center” and we love it!! Life at the Garland Senior Center will fill your day with fun and play!

Remember the saying, “You don’t get old because you play, you get old because you quit playing.” Words to live by, “Train your mind to see the good in people. Always remember that the good you see in others is a reflection of the good that is in you.”

Hoyley Hobson said, “Trust in your ability to navigate treachous waters, whatever it takes to make the shift, do it. You are the master of your life and you possess the power to choose how the story will end at any given moment.”

In my closing listen to the words of the wise women, “Be all or get all out; there is no half way!”

Stay connected to the Shade Tree of Life. Love, live and laugh. I heard Dennis Newton say, “The best gift you can give someone is your time!” Think about it, stop and smell the roses. One more thing, Wiz Khalife said, “Worrying is stupid. It’s like walking around with an umbrella waiting for it to rain.” Sounds like he’s talking to me! Enjoy your Labor Day.

Marie Faircloth
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/web1_Marie-Faircloth.jpgMarie Faircloth

By Marie Faircloth

Contributing columnist

Marie Faircloth is the director of the Garland Senior Center.