Aunt Verna

I was told a story about a single old woman in her late 70′s who was asked to lead a huge group of kids in Sunday school one Sunday.  She did it gladly and did it well.  Using a felt board, she captured the attention of the entire group of kids ranging in age from 5-12.

The storyteller related how after meeting with this woman one would walk away smiling and encouraged.  We were talking about church relationships and how bad church experiences can leave us more mature or bitter depending on how we choose to let the experience shape us.

This woman who was never married grew into a happy old woman.  I think that says a lot when the term “grumpy old man” is so prevalent.  Grumpiness in old age can be thought of as a normal pregression.  My husband and I were even talking the other night of how were getting grumpier as we’re getting older.  And we’re only in our 30′s!  What a sneaky, unfortunate trap to fall in.

I want to be like the old woman in her 70′s who leaves other feeling better then when they came.  I want my life circumstances to shape me and mature me and be used for good.  I want to saw off the root of bitterness at the moment I notice it rearing its ugly head.  I want to be like Aunt Verna.

Thank you for your example Aunt Verna.  I never knew you but your legacy lives on.

Aunt Vera married for the first time in her mid 80′s.

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