Yesterday I returned to the Babbel language app for the first time in over a year.  Motivation to relearn basic Dutch has returned, because the care home has accepted my application to volunteer.

How the seasons of life change … away from “English only” to Dutch conversations with old people, some with dementia.

I need the eyes to see the vibrant human being inside the old body:

Yes, this man has evolved over the years.  No doubt life experience has drawn some filters over his eyes.  But the emerging adventures of youth are still inside.

And the same …

Way back when, people didn’t smile for photos, but I bet they laughed a lot with their friends.

And more recently … Does the joking young one become the “mature” old one?

Or is it only through time that the true joys of living are revealed?

Whomever I meet at the care home, may I draw forth the humanity of the person sitting with me.

The cool memories

The eyes of wonder

The remembering of love