Each week they ambled into the church building intent on doing good. All of them were over 70. None of them were boring.
Most churches have a group of older ladies who assemble regularly to fold bulletins, prepare children’s class materials, and gossip. Such were these.
I expected them to be just another group of grumpy old church ladies, but they defied such a description. One, I am quite certain, is the original inspiration for the cartoon Maxine! Another reminded me of Claire Huxtable.
Between them, they had experienced pre-mature deaths of loved ones, financial catastrophe, loneliness, depression, chronic illness, and gender oppression. They had seen church fights and street fights. But, they had also known success, and radiant beauty, and inner beauty that defies wrinkly skin and old age. They were spunky, yet dignified; faithful, and still full of joy. They referred to themselves asRecycled Teenagers! And they acted the part!
So each week I sat with them, went out to eat with them, and learned from them. One of these days, I’m going to choose to be a recycled teenager myself!
Worth Repeating
Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.
–Muriel Strode
