“You look absolutely beautiful today, honey,” Eleanor said to me as we walked around the rose garden. I looked down at my outfit. I was wearing old gym shorts and a baggy t-shirt. I thanked Eleanor and smiled. Eleanor is a friend of mine. She is also a resident at Blakey Hall Assisted Living retirement home.
Last Christmas, I went to Blakey Hall with some friends to sing carols and sip cocoa. The old folks were so genuinely sweet and joyful, and ever since that night I wanted to go back. So, at the start of this semester I started going to the retirement home two days a week. It’s only a short walk from campus, and I always look forward to my afternoons spent there. Whether walking in the garden, playing 20 Questions, or just sitting on the porch talking, I always leave the retirement home in high spirits.
The residents of Blakey Hall may be elderly, but they are so incredibly full of life. They love to tell stories about their high school sweethearts, their homes growing up, and the grandchildren they love to spoil. Their eyes light up when I walk in the room, even if my hairs in a mess and I have no makeup on. My friends at Blakey Hall don’t judge me based on what I look like or my social status, they just love to have someone to spend time with, someone who isn’t getting paid to take care of them or doing it with an ulterior motive.
I feel like I can be my truest self when I’m with my 80-year-old friends. No matter how busy and overwhelmed I am, I never regret taking a couple hours out of my day to go to Blakey Hall. I wish more young people would take the time to be with those who are so often forgotten. Volunteering at Blakey Hall has deeply enriched my life, and I am incredibly grateful for the time I’ve gotten to spend there.
So next time you’re in need of a pick-me-up, walk down Manning Avenue and turn right at the white picket fence. When you reach the big brick building, friendly folks relaxing in rocking chairs will greet you, and tell you look beautiful… no matter what you’re wearing.