As the quarter comes to an end, I’m feeling quite bittersweet about finishing this class. It’s rare to find opportunities off campus where you feel connected to the community, and I feel immensely grateful for the things I've learned these past ten weeks. We went to Barrio Logan and saw Chicano park–the art was empowering as it showed so much resilience and connectivity within a community that has faced a lot of structural barriers. I played on a playground and slid down a skate ramp, it was very fun. Despite the neighborhood having room to grow in its ‘age friendliness’ I'm glad I was able to see it in person, as a lot of the stories I’ve heard only focused on its deficits. The following week going to Casa Mañana was really interesting. The retirement home reminded me of a cruise ship: it had a spa, salt water warm pool, library, outdoor space, and balconies within the suites. When talking with the residents I met Phyllis and Phyllis S (Both women named Phyllis). We talked about grief, relationships, travel, and children: my belief that there isn’t one “right” way to live your life was solidified. They also told us about Mel, the retirement home heartthrob. That made me smile, as dynamics we see as early as high school will carry on throughout life.
Brianna, Isaac, Christine, and I also did our Healthy Aging Project (HAP) at the Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center. We held conversation circles on sex, intimacy, and love throughout the love course. Wow. That event tested my confidence, as initially only two women showed up: Carolyn and Marie. Then Billy, a man from Corpus Christi TX came. Initially conversation was choppy, and people were reluctant to come and join. A lot of the seniors expressed hesitancy or disinterest. However, Brianna brought donuts which caused a lot more people to come by, and naturally small discussion groups formed, rather than the big circle.
Isaac and I talked with Carolyn who’s #1 rule for dating was: “you can fall in love with a good guy or a bad guy. So when you see red flags leave.” I get the sentiment, it is interesting how quickly feelings can develop so being cautious and aware is smart. A moment that surprised me was Isaac and I complimented Carolyn, and she looked slightly tearful and surprised. It’s possible she doesn’t hear as many compliments as she deserves. Carolyn also made the comparison of dating to job interviews. Where people assess how compatible their qualities are. I hadn’t thought of it that way, but I think that’s a cool perspective. Overall, our HAP was incredible. I am so grateful for peoples’ engagement and willingness to be part of these conversations, and I felt honored they would trust to share vulnerable aspects of their lives with us.
Brianna, Isaac, Christine, and I also did our Healthy Aging Project (HAP) at the Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center. We held conversation circles on sex, intimacy, and love throughout the love course. Wow. That event tested my confidence, as initially only two women showed up: Carolyn and Marie. Then Billy, a man from Corpus Christi TX came. Initially conversation was choppy, and people were reluctant to come and join. A lot of the seniors expressed hesitancy or disinterest. However, Brianna brought donuts which caused a lot more people to come by, and naturally small discussion groups formed, rather than the big circle.
Isaac and I talked with Carolyn who’s #1 rule for dating was: “you can fall in love with a good guy or a bad guy. So when you see red flags leave.” I get the sentiment, it is interesting how quickly feelings can develop so being cautious and aware is smart. A moment that surprised me was Isaac and I complimented Carolyn, and she looked slightly tearful and surprised. It’s possible she doesn’t hear as many compliments as she deserves. Carolyn also made the comparison of dating to job interviews. Where people assess how compatible their qualities are. I hadn’t thought of it that way, but I think that’s a cool perspective. Overall, our HAP was incredible. I am so grateful for peoples’ engagement and willingness to be part of these conversations, and I felt honored they would trust to share vulnerable aspects of their lives with us.