Losing Marbles, Gaining Gold

There is little doubt that some losses in aging happen. To think that one's capacities don't change is not being realistic. The best part of that fact is that not all faculties, lose. I know a wonderful person whose history denies fault in almost every way, but who is losing the odd marble here and there. I am assuming you know what kinds of marbles I speak of. This individual who plays a  demanding game of cards, shows a certain lower ability in some aspects, but those who play with him, are beginning to realize that their opinions should be held in check. He has a second wisdom that defies careless analysis and he often comes up with astonishing victories. Knowing this gentleman personally and having had many conversations with him away from the tables of cards, I find him brilliant. His abilities in wit and language, his observations and conclusions, are intriguing. When I learned the history of his accomplishments, I was humbled. It is a lesson in cursory judging the elderly by what you see in the present, without "turning the cup over to see the brand", so to speak. All of us at one time or another, have visited "old folks homes". We see some sad images of those whose afflictions, the ravages of time, have changed them completely. What we see, is not what we get. Aging problems eventually catch up with all of us and it isn't the fault of any individual. Some persons who were great athletes, some who were professionals and saved lives, helped the needy, ran huge corporations, built bridges, made surgical magic or laboured all their lives to contribute what they were, could end up in a wheel chair or hospital bed. It comes to all of us, as my aged father-in-law once or twice said. And it does. Elders love to chat with people because often it is what they do best. Why not sit down next to someone and say hello. You just might learn some interesting history about that person, should he or she find you would welcome such an investment in time. Very often when we think about our grandparents, we regret not having spent more opportunities  finding out about their lives. Perhaps taking time to talk to others who are "of an age" might satisfy that need. History was made in every life and all lives, not just the ones that can point to the newspaper or  a book that has their name. All of the famous in the past were put there in some way by the "little man or woman". No great achievements are accomplished single-handedly. Aging folks who want to share their lives are giving us an invaluable gift. We are thankful for their golden lives.