Magic of Aging

December 2007

by R. H. Carter

{sidebar id=1}It seems that no more than a week ago I was writing an article for the Wakulla Times about the most loving holiday of all, Christmas. This can easily become the warmest, kindest and the most personally satisfying holiday of the year. It is such a pleasure to see friends in need being blessed with food, clothing and other basic items that we normally take for granted. It reminds us of how blessed we are to live in such a loving, caring community.

There was an article published recently in the newspaper reporting that Florida nonprofits were lagging behind the rest of the nation. It reported that while the nonprofit sector in Florida generates billions of dollars each year and accounts for almost 5 percent of the states employment, it is well below the national average. This may be a problem statewide but our community has continued its generosity in supporting human services for our neighbors of all ages. Total dollars contributed may decline some during this economic downturn but I believe that caring for our friends and neighbors will continue locally.

The Sopchoppy City Commission recently approved a measure submitted by Commissioner Richard Harden to paint the Senior Citizens Thrift Shop and spruce up the sign to improve its appearance. The thrift shop is located in Sopchoppy on its main street. It is managed and operated by volunteers from their community. Ms. Peggy Cobb has been the ringleader for many years and Ms. Viola Henderson is gradually assuming those leadership responsibilities. The thrift shop has many items for sale. The majority of its sales items is clothing. They inspect, clean, fold and price every item before it is placed on the shelf for sale. If you need clothing for children or adults, you will find the lowest prices in Wakulla County in the thrift shop. Just go to Sopchoppy and explore for yourself. The total proceeds go to the senior citizens of Wakulla County.

The senior center will be closed on the 25th, 26th and 31st during December for the holidays. The center will be open the other business days and regular activities will continue. We will be receiving gift packages from the community to give to seniors in need. Our staff often purchases gifts for needy families that our transportation and before/after school employees identify. Receiving and delivering gifts becomes a giant, fun activity at Christmas. In addition to our regular activities the seniors recently visited the Mary Brogan Museum and enjoyed lunch. They also traveled to Wakulla Springs and enjoyed lunch and a boat ride.

We pray that you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and New Year. Be happy, healthy and love with all your heart. Your love will be returned to you abundantly.

This article originally published on November 19, 2007.

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