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inches away. Time froze as I pulled my arm out, just a moment from being bitten off. My son saw the shark’s tail 6 feet away. I’d like to say we did something smart, like get to shore, but we didn’t. The waves were just that good. Why do I love surfing so much? It’s something about being out in the ocean, with lots of water moving, and learning to be in the right place at the right time. It’s the adrenaline rush of dropping down the face of a wave, adjusting my weight and position to match the speed and shape of the wave. Then paddling out and doing it all again. I’ve been addicted to surfing since jumping on an inflatable bodyboard 50 years ago. I love it just as much as I always have. When I’m out there in the warm waters of Hawaii, I can’t help but be excited about the next wave.
I couldn’t help but try to get my kids surfing. Once they grew up and could swim, I taught them how to ride the waves. Not everyone loves surfing like I do, and it didn’t stick with everyone. But beach camping experiences made an impression on the whole Bennett family, and we still reminisce about the many years we’ve spent together on the shore.
One of my most terrifying surfing moments was with my son at Oceanside Harbor, California. We were out together, riding waves, paddling back and forth. It was just the two of us. I pulled my right arm out of the water, and a shark’s maw was open underneath my arm from elbow to knuckles, 3–4
–David Bennett
The Power of Encouraging Positivity
In the golden years of life, the value of encouragement cannot be overstated. It becomes not just a simple gesture but a beacon of hope and strength amidst the challenges that often accompany life these days. For those navigating the complexities of health concerns and financial worries, a few words of genuine encouragement can light up their world in unimaginable ways.
The influence of encouragement in this stage of life is profound. It can transform a day filled with loneliness or frustration into hope and determination. The acknowledgment from grown children, grandchildren, friends, or neighbors can reinforce a sense of belonging and purpose, reminding someone they are valued, loved, and not alone in their journey. Encouragement as a Remedy for the Soul In a world where negative news can easily overshadow personal achievements and joys, a simple act of kindness or positive words can shield against despair. For seniors, who have experienced much and often reflect on their lives, encouragement can also be a balm for regrets, a reminder that their lives are still unfolding and that every moment holds the potential for beauty and satisfaction.
The act of encouraging others is equally beneficial. It fosters a culture of empathy and understanding,
bridging the gap between generations and reinforcing the bonds of family and community. When seniors encourage others, they reaffirm their own wisdom and worth, contributing
to a legacy of positivity that can inspire their families and peers.
The Healing Power of Encouragement
So, to our seniors and those who hold them dear, let’s make encouragement a daily practice. Whether it’s a phone call to a friend, a note of appreciation to a family member, or a kind word to a stranger, these acts of encouragement are powerful. They have the potential to uplift the spirits of those who might feel overlooked or undervalued and enrich our own lives with a sense of purpose and connection.
Imagine the comfort that comes from a reassuring word during a doctor’s visit or the warmth of a friend’s voice over the phone. For those grappling with the realities of Medicare and limited income, encouragement is not just about boosting morale; it’s about affirming their ongoing struggle and victories in maintaining
health, managing finances, and finding joy in day-to-day life. 2 hawaii.seniorhealth.pro
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