I’ve started to pay more attention to older people, they often go unnoticed. I want to make a difference in people's lives, be more aware and put my mobile away more often to be present to what’s happening around me.

My good friend Andrew posted on Facebook the other day how he stopped to chat to an elderly gentleman who had a twinkle in his eye when he saw him shuffling down the street with the assistance of his walker. He got his life story in a quick few moments about how he had moved to the area 41 years ago with his wife who was ill and was not expected to return home.  They shared a few special moments of reflection and how he was turning 96 years old on Anzac Day. A full life. Andrew said he would raise a beer to him on that day and think of him. That post really affected me and made me smile and realise how many of these moments pass us by each day that we miss.

How often do we rush past elderly people dashing to our next destination in a jam packed schedule trying to send a txt at the same time. The other day I saw an elderly woman pushing a heavy trolley and had to stop and assist her. She only wanted a bit of help up the small incline and then said she’d be fine as she was obviously independent and in no rush. I definitely helped make her life a bit easier and I know it made me feel wonderful and was such a small thing. It made me think of how many times I had probably passed someone needing my help and rushed right past.

Have you seen this video about a magical program in Brazil where young people wanting to learn English skype with seniors in the USA living in retirement homes.

If this doesn’t bring a smile to your face and make the hairs on your neck stand up, your eyes well with pride and make you want to be a better person, then I don’t believe you. Be sure to watch… it’s magical. It’s my dream to share programs like this with as many people as I can so we can all help spread the word about the wonderful wisdom and souls of people who have been on this Earth for many more years than us. They have so much to give and a program like this shows us why. WHY don’t we have programs like this in every retirement home? We can all do something about this NOW – SHARE this video with as many people as you can and let’s keep the conversation going…. maybe this program will be a standard across the board in future….

Imagine if we were all better human beings and took more time, not a lot, to help each other, smile and be courteous. Wow, the ripple effect would be magical and what a beautiful role model we would be for not only our children but each other. Here’s to our magical world and appreciating every smile, gesture and nuance… x