New neighborhood brings new purpose

By Wilfredo Repuyan

I have been in a state of malaise the past couple of years. Each day was dreary and dull, feeling as if I had no energy left or purpose in life.  Remembering the TV program “Life is Worth Living” featuring Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, I was feeling guilty for not doing anything to convey the message of the gift of life. This feeling nudged me to look back at what activities give me joy, and this made me return to my love of reading. I came across one of John Milton’s best-known sonnets, “When I consider how my Light is Spent.” He ends his poem with the famous line, “They also serve who only stand and wait” — this inspired me to share my insight on how seniors can still serve society as they wait. 

My wife and I have been married for 64 years.  We are both retired from the field of education and business. In the late 90s, we were presented with an opportunity to be a managing couple for a United States-based retirement facility. 

This interesting opening made us decide to migrate to the U.S. from the Philippines. We enjoyed this change in the culture and pace, as well as the travel that came with it.

However, after several fun years of serving seniors, we felt it was time for us to slow down and enjoy the senior life ourselves.  

The first few years of our retirement were great, still enjoying the independence without the stress of work to think about. That feeling diminished as we approached our 80s. It came to a point where driving was not safe for me anymore, with me saying goodbye to independence. It felt like it was going downhill from there — a time of wait until “my time” was up.  

In October 2023, our daughter took us for a trip to a senior living community. That visit ended with her surprising us with the key to our new unit. Although the sound of living in a new community was exciting, I did not think it was going to be that much different, but it was one of those rare times when I admit I was wrong. 

Our new home on White Rock Trail made us experience a change in our lives, physically and spiritually. Not only does it have a welcoming family atmosphere, but it is surrounded by trees that contribute to the serenity of the place. We see seniors safely enjoying a walk out in nature, with a variety of alternative indoor activities offered as well. Transportation is provided for appointments and entertainment that I don’t even mind not being able to drive anymore. It is such a sight to see seniors continuing to live life to the fullest. It is inspiring to see them sitting on a bench watching and listening to the birds. I find joy in observing nature, with the trees swaying to the tune of silence. Experiencing this change in scenery made me ask myself, “Am I dreaming?” No, I am fully awake appreciating, enjoying the beauty and wonder of God’s creation.

In this place, I continue to learn as I listen to others share the stories of their lives, cherished memories, funny moments, heartaches and lessons learned. Experiencing how my fellow seniors are pressing on living with positivity and grace has renewed my own sense of purpose. Archbishop Sheen is right, life IS worth living. Where I am now is indeed a place where we can add more years to God’s gift of life. After all, the purpose of life is a life of purpose.