What is the longest time you have ever waited for something? Every time you turn around you see a new time saving invention that will revolutionize the way we do things. We live in a day and age where we don’t like to wait any amount of time. Children say all the time, “I want it and I want it now!” Just a few weeks ago during an elder vacation to Pigeon Forge in Tennessee we learned that one of our elders, Lowell Williams, had been patiently waiting for over 40 years to do something we often take for granted.
After a day of sightseeing, shopping, and a great dinner show the topic, everyone began to talk about what they were going to do the next day. One stakeholder mentioned the beautiful Cades Cove, another mentioned another dinner show, until finally someone said the magic word: swimming. Lowell’s face lit up and said that he hadn’t been swimming in over 40 years! Jack Endicott, another elder, quickly agreed that they should go swimming. It was just a year ago that Jack took his first ever trip down a waterslide! Cindy Porter, activity director of Prestonsburg HealthCare, said there was no talking either one of them out of it. They were bound and determined to go swimming! After a trip that evening to the store to buy some swimming trunks and sunscreen, the next day’s plans were set.
Once breakfast was finished and all the food was settled, they made their way to the pool. As the temperature began to rise so did Lynn Watts’ nerves. She said she wasn’t sure who to be more nervous for, herself or Lowell and Jack! After 40 years, Lowell was finally getting to something he loved to do again. Thankfully, swimming is like riding a bike and Lowell didn’t miss a beat, floating, swimming, and splashing just like he did 40 years ago.
There we so many amazing things that happened on this trip. Favorites could be picked from the Dixie Stampede, the Lumberjack Feud, the picturesque scenery, or the great shopping and stores. Without hesitation, they all said their favorite thing was swimming, because it was a long time coming. It’s not always about how much money you can spend or how much great food you can eat. The shows and sights could never truly replace what really matters: making memories.
When is the last time you made an unforgettable memory? This short trip, even just this one event made, an indelible impression in the life of Lowell Williams.
Every day we have the ability to make memories. Take today and make it count.