THE TIDINGS MONTE VISTA GROVE HOMES 2889 SAN PASQUAL STREET

PASADENA, CA 91107 May 2017

(626) 796-6135 www.mvgh.org

“All the news that fits”

2017

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MAY CONVOCATIONS

Thursdays at 4:00 pm in Marwick Place

May 4 - HOW DO WE WEIGH THE PLANETS AND SEARCH FOR NEW ONES?

Mr.Sami Asmar, Jet Propulsion Laboratory

How do scientists search for new planets and other bodies in and outside our solar system? We can weigh things on the surface of our planet earth, but how do we weigh the planet itself? Sami Asmar from JPL is a gifted speaker who will explain in simple terms the answers to these and other questions about the interior structure of planets and what we can learn by using robotic spacecraft. Mr. Asmar is currently a manager for strategic planning at JPL's interplanetary network directorate and has been an active investigator in the field of radio science used to probe planetary atmospheres and gravitational fields. He and his wife Deanna are good friends of Jim Symons and the godparents of Jim’s grandson Peter. May 11 - NEW THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY OF THE WEST (NTS-WEST)

Come hear the new, exciting growth and innovative approach to theological education in Southern California and the West Coast. The primary presenter will be The Rev. Dr. John A. D'Elia, who became the first president of New Theological Seminary of the West (NTS-West) in 2016. President D'Elia, and others related to the seminary, will share this "faith-filled" journey started just a few years ago. The NTS-West program seeks to integrate faith and learning through innovative teaching, creative scholarship, flexible class schedules, and the practical experience of ministry in response to the needs of our changing societies and culture. NTS-West students and graduates are formed in classes where theory and practice always intersect because they are taught by professional faculty engaged practically in a wide variety of ministries. Don't miss this exciting update! May 18 - OCCIDENTAL COLLEGE GLEE CLUB The venerable and renowned Occidental College Glee Club will sing on May 18. Occidental College is a private residential college of the liberal arts and sciences in the Eagle Rock area. The Glee Club was founded in 1906, about 20 years after the founding of the college. It is dedicated to superb music making and to fostering ties that unite generations of singers, some alumni of which are residents of MVGH. Desirée La Vertu is the current conductor, following Tom Somerville and Howard Swan.

After dinner on May 18 at 6:15 in the Gamble Room, Sarah Hennesy from the Oxy Glee Club will present the findings of the study she did last year involving some Monte Vista residents about the emotional effects of music. May 25 - FROM PAUL'S HEART TO MINE: A SPIRITUAL AUTOBIOGRAPHY Biblical Scholar, F. Dale Bruner

For our final convocation before the summer break we are delighted to present Dale Bruner, our Biblical Scholar-In-Residence. He will give us an autobiographical talk of stories about how his faith was formed, including a one-page insert of his favorite, most life-forming texts. Dale is the Wasson Emeritus Professor of Theology, Whitworth University and the author of numerous articles and Biblical commentaries.

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PRAYERS FOR MEMORIAL DAY

“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity” (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Dear Heavenly Father, on this day of remembrance for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy every day, we think of how they have followed in the footsteps of your son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Please hold our servicemen and women in your strong arms. Cover them with your sheltering grace and your presence as they stand in the gap for our protection. We also remember the families of our troops. We ask for your unique blessings to fill their homes, and we pray your peace, provision, hope and strength will fill their lives. May the members of our armed forces be supplied with courage to face each day and may they trust in the Lord's mighty power to accomplish each task. Let our military sisters and brothers feel our love and support. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen. "That we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain; that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom; and that government, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth." -- Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address, 1863

PRAY FOR AFRICA Join us as we continue to pray for the vast and varied continent of Africa on the first Tuesday of each month in the Gamble Room at 1:00 pm. Our next gathering will beTuesday,May2,intheGambleRoomat1:00pm.

MVGH Men’s Prayer Fellowship When: Monday Mornings

9:00 am – 9:30 am Where: The Hearth Lounge

(All MVGH men are welcome)

May Leaders 1 – Tom Erickson 8 – Cecil Hoffman 15 – Dudley Woodberry 22 –Gene Terpstra 29 – Howard den Hartog

Come share this time for thanksgiving, intercession and fellowship with one another as brothers in Christ.

For more information, contact Cecil Hoffman, Facilitator

MVGH Women’s Prayer Group When: Wednesday Mornings

9:00 am – 9:30 am Where: The Hearth Family Room (All MVGH women are welcome)

We read the day’s passage from the Mission Yearbook of Prayer and pray for our world, our MVGH family, our families and friends.

Both silent and spoken prayers are welcome.

For more information, contact Evelyn Thomas Heyne at (626) 316-1586.

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(AD) MINISTRATION

PRESIDENTIAL PONDERINGS

“Everyone who hears these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise person who builds a house on solid rock” (Matthew 7:24). Following Jesus’ example, solid foundations have now been laid for our new Memory Care Residence and Wellness Center. This spring has become the season of demolition, digging and dust here at the Grove. At the same time, it is also the season of spring flowers, butterflies emerging from cocoons, baby birds hatching from eggs, and the sweet sound of birds chirping their spring songs. There is new life, new beginnings to celebrate all around us. While thinking of spring times past, I was reminded of my years in Wilmington, DE. We would drive over to Lancaster, PA’s Amish Country. Acres of fields were filled with beautiful spring flowers. Amidst those flowers would often be an entire community gathered, men and boys working together building a barn, hammering board by board, on a freshly laid foundation. Nearby, women and girls were preparing a feast for those participating in the barn raising. What was so markedly evident was the way they worked together in perfect harmony. Here at MVGH, we may not personally be laying foundations or framing walls, but we too live in a community, working together caring for one another and for all who are a part of our community. Our caring demonstrates Christ’s love not only to those who come to our campus, but also to the greater community. Thanks be to God! -- Marilyn Manning, Residents’ Association President

MVGH RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION DUES

The April 4, 2017 Treasurer’s Report on the Residents’ Association Bulletin Board reflects the fact that 75 residents had paid their 2017 dues. Subsequently 10 more have joined them. If you are not among them you are invited to join them as soon as possible. Dues for 2017 are at $55.00 per individual or $110.00 for a couple.

You can write a check to “MVGH Residents’ Council” and note “RA Dues.” Checks may be placed in the brown wood drop box at the right hand end of the mail boxes. Our annual dues make possible our Convocations, Library, Media Resources, and special events like the visit of the Rose Court, the Resident Trustee Luncheon and the Staff Appreciation Party. If you have any questions about your dues please contact Huw Christopher, the 2017 Residents’ Association Treasurer, at huwchristopher@gmail.com or (850) 209-6931.

-- Huw Christopher

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We began 2017 with a fund balance of $1.96. Since then we have received $4,328.69. As of April 7, 2017 we have a balance of $4,430.65 (including dividends). The donation guide is #365 per resident, but give what you are able. Thank you to all who have participated so far and to all who will be giving later this year.

We need to receive all the donations by November 30. If you need a guide for giving in installments, let me know. There are now 11 residents giving monthly or quarterly. We will be giving the gifts to the staff in December. Make your check payable to MVGH Residents' Association with the memo to read Staff Appreciation Fund. Put it in the box for our Association which is below "outgoing mail". Please put Staff Appreciation Fund on your envelope. -- Barbro Hammond (barbrolh@earthlink.net) or 909-904-8895

STAFF APPRECIATION FUND NEWS

PHILANTHROPY CORNER DATES TO MARK ON YOUR CALENDARS:

SPRING EVENT: Saturday, May 6th from 8-11 am, Noelle Gonzales in partnership with Auxiliary and staff will be overseeing this event. Please note, per the Auxiliary Board vote, the Pancake Breakfast will be moved to the fall event. The food for this event will be provided by Lucky Boy and Donut Man. 7TH ANNUAL FOUNDERS’ GALA: Saturday, July 29th from 6-9 pm at Descanso Gardens in La Canada. Fritz Coleman, the NBC4 weather forecaster, will emcee this event. We will honor the Synod of Southern California and Hawaii, House of Rest, Convalescent Aid Society and Robert Koch. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Life Engagement Program, which provides enrichment programming to enhance the daily life for Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing residents. Activities may include: exercise, music, art classes, educational programs, special culinary meals, brain games, etc. These programs make up $163,945 of the MVGH current operating budget. FALL EVENT: Saturday, October 7th from 8-11 am, Pancake Breakfast and Silent Auction. Noelle Gonzales in partnership with Auxiliary and staff will be overseeing this event. MUSINGS: Monday, October 23rd from 6-7:30 pm in Marwick Place. Guest speaker: Barbara Mathieu, “A Cultural Anthropologist’s View of Our World.” She will share stories of her field research and how anthropology relates to faith. The Messenger: In the 2017 spring newsletter under the memorial section you will find Honorary and Memorial Tributes for Annual Giving gifts. There is an asterisk and footnote. This footnote refers people to our website to view all the memorial/honorary gifts given during the period of the capital campaign. Search https://www.mvgh.org/capital-campaign. When you scroll down, you will find “Please take a moment to view our Honorary and Memorial Tributes here.” -- Meagan Swan, Annual Giving and Community Outreach Director

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FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: The next MVGH department I would like to focus on is Housekeeping. Eight hardworking individuals manage the housekeeping/janitorial needs of the Health Center, the Hearth, the Commons, Administration, Marwick Place, Guest Apartments, and any other common areas. They also provide housekeeping services for many residents on the general campus. In addition to these day-to-day assignments, they also play a major role in the cleanup after events.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE:

• Wellness Center Site: Underground utilities are almost complete. The storm drain on Third Street needs to be replaced, as it is crushed/cracked. Next will be digging for the footings and preparation for the foundation!

• Memory Care Site: Work on underground utilities is underway. We have encountered a challenge in identifying the correct sewer line but with the help of cameras, etc., we will soon solve this mystery.

• Pool Building Site: The smallest building is presenting the biggest challenges!

Numerous underground utilities have been discovered. This is being managed two ways: (1) the size of the building has been reduced so as to minimize the impact on the underground utilities; (2) the lines to the pool are being consolidated into one trench, out of the way of the pool building. This impacts the hydraulic line to the pool cover so it will need to stay in the open position for the months ahead.

• Gazebo: Our own crew is now doing this in-house.

-- Deborah Herbert

NAME TITLE REPORTS TO SCHEDULE

Beatriz Hernandez Housekeeping Supervisor

Ed Cortez Fulltime

Imelda Castaneda Housekeeper Beatriz Hernandez Fulltime Maria Espana Housekeeper Beatriz Hernandez Fulltime Maria Garcia Housekeeper Beatriz Hernandez Fulltime Juana Limon Housekeeper Beatriz Hernandez Fulltime Filomena Mares Housekeeper Beatriz Hernandez Fulltime Marcelino Rivas Housekeeper Beatriz Hernandez Fulltime Genoveva Serrano Housekeeper Beatriz Hernandez Fulltime

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9 KEYS FOR A YOUTHFUL BRAIN

Last month I shared insights on why we forget. This month I’m sharing nine keys to maintaining a more youthful brain as we age:

1. Be physically active. Moving your body mindfully can directly improve brain health, energy, and the quality of your emotions.

2. Get adequate sleep. You recharge your mind and the firing of neurons in your brain with sleep.

3. Eat the best brain foods and supplements. That’s a diet relatively low in fat, cholesterol and sugar. It includes antioxidant-rich vegetables and fish, plus adequate levels of vitamin D.

4. Cultivate curiosity. Novelty, play and wonder are potent brain fertilizers.

5. Remain flexible. Despite challenges we face as we age, our brains have amazing capacity to change and adapt through the whole of our lives.

6. Be optimistic. While we naturally vary in degrees of optimism, this inner quality can be cultivated and honed with great rewards.

7. Cultivate empathy. Those who are more intimately wired to others withstand best the impact of losses and setbacks that accumulate over time.

8. Be well-connected. Our mental and physical health depends on how well our social connections provide us with meaning, purpose, and direction.

9. Be an authentic person. There is no end to your journey toward authentic selfhood, because you are always changing, choosing, and awakening to your true self.

For further reliable information on how to minimize cognitive decline with age, read Staying Sharp: 9 Keys for a Youthful Brain through Modern Science and Ageless Wisdom by Henry Emmons MD and David Alter PhD. It’s now available in our Grove library, or from me.

-- Norm Thomas

CHAPLAIN FOR THE HEALTH CENTER AND HEARTH

The Rev. Susan Wallace Hermann has been called to serve as the Chaplain for the MVGH Health Center and the Hearth. Rev. Hermann grew up in La Canada and heard of Monte Vista Grove Homes most of her life at La Canada Presbyterian Church. She was ordained there in 1988. Gary Demarest preached her ordination sermon and Bill Cunningham guided her through the process, taking part in her commission. Susan is married to Mark Hermann, and she has a son, Sean Moriarty who is 23.

Susan began in healthcare ministry in seminary, when she was confronted with situations where Pastoral Care was not done well. It led to internships in Chaplaincy, a medical ethics course, and eventually to a residency in ACPE (Association of Clinical Pastoral Education). She has served around the country in pastoral roles and most recently as Hospice Chaplain for the last 12 years.

Susan became more aware of the MVGH Health Center about 3 years ago when her dad became a patient there for rehab after a major surgery. She was quite impressed with the care he received and the attention to each individual.

Our Chaplaincy Committee welcomes Susan to this new contracted position, offering spiritual counsel to patients in the Health Center and residents of the Hearth, as well as leading Seasons support group for the MVGH community. -- Bill Van Loan

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AMAZING PLACES TO VISIT (Suggestions from an Experienced Traveler)

I've been many places, but I've never been in Cahoots. You can't go there alone. You have to be in Cahoots with someone. Sometimes I'm in Capable, and I go there more often now that I'm older. I've never been in Cognito. They say no one recognizes you there. I have been in Sane. They don't have an airport, so you have to be driven there. I've made several trips there, thanks to my family, friends, and fellow workers. I would like to go to Conclusions, but you have to jump there and I'm not much for physical activity anymore. One of my favorite places to be is in Suspense. It really gets the adrenalin flowing and pumps up the old heart. At my age, I need all the stimuli I can get. Now if I can just avoid getting in Continent. From Huell Howser's Journal (Submitted by Gene Terpstra)

SOME OF MY FAVORITE QUOTES

In perusing a book I keep for quotes, I found the following I’d like to share with you.

"In a good book, the best is between the lines." Swedish proverb

"Crucifixion: God absorbing evil without passing it on." Christ Memorial Church, Holland, MI

"Courage comes and goes. Hold on for the next supply." Thomas Merton

"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle." Philo of Alexandria

"A good book has no ending." R. D. Cumming

"There are two ways, my friend, that you can be rich in life. One is to make a lot of money and the other is to have few needs." Letters to A Young Poet, William Sloan Coffin

"God is impossible to satisfy but easy to please." George McDonald

-- Carole Bos

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MISCELLANY

FROM THE TREASURE CHEST

I was wandering one day on a visit to Copenhagen when I discovered the Domkirke (The Lutheran Cathedral of Our Lady). Inside the sanctuary I was inspired to discover Bertel Thorvaldsen’s original sculpture of THE CHRISTUS. Inside the cathedral the figure of our Lord rose 8 feet tall above the chancel. His arms were outstretched, His wounds exposed, His head bowed so that you would need to kneel to meet His gaze. I walked up the aisle to the chancel that day and I knelt in quiet……..

The Domkirke is a beautiful church. Its windows are fashioned of clear beveled glass and the walls are shimmering white. The chancel alcove where THE CHRISTUS stands is covered in gold leaf. Thorvaldsen also sculpted 12 other larger than life marble statues that line the walls of the cathedral. These statues represent the 11 disciples and the Apostle Paul, all leading up to the Christ figure. The effect is breathtaking! A smaller replica of THE CHRISTUS statue stands here in the front courtyard of the Grove. It was moved here as a gift from the Synod of Southern, California. The statue had stood for many years outside the Chapel of Synod Headquarters. The Headquarters had to be downsized and the statue was relocated here to the grounds at the Grove. At first the statue was located just south of where the swimming pool stands. For a time THE CHRISTUS stood at the center of the busy ebb and flow of campus life. When the Hearth was enlarged the

statue was moved to quieter location in the front courtyard. Regardless wherever the figure of the Risen Christ might stand on our campus, it speaks words of encouragement to us as we face the challenges and the changes in our later years. Thorvaldsen’s vision in creating his sculpture was to remind the world of the Words that were spoken by the Risen Christ who stands with His arms outstretched, His cruel wounds displayed and His head bowed.

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These are the Words of Jesus that Thorvaldsen envisioned in his sculpture: “Come to me all you who are struggling and bearing heavy loads and I will give you rest. Put on my yoke and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28). -- Bill Hansen for the History Committee

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UPDATE ON ORPHAN CARE IN MALAWI, AFRICA

Tuesday, May 9, 7:15 pm at San Marino Community Church

Daniel Moyo, Director of Education and Spiritual Development for Ministry of Hope (MoH) in Malawi, Africa will be speaking at San Marino Community Church on Tuesday, May 9 at 7:15 pm. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided. As an orphan himself growing up in Malawi, Mr. Moyo is keenly devoted to their special issues, and has been part of Ministry of Hope senior management for over 10 years. He heads the scholarship program serving about three hundred students, the spiritual discipline program for thousands of children at Ministry of Hope, and the volunteer program hosting mission teams from

around the globe. He is in the U.S. visiting partner churches throughout the country. Come hear Daniel's story of how his personal life experiences equipped him with compassion and understanding to reach out to the orphaned children of Malawi and help them find hope and faith in their own future. We too can help them discover a brighter future. MVGH Trustee,Janet Wells and Marilyn Manning, (MoH) Board Members

MALAWI MISSION On May 10 Joe Kang is to be on board a flight to Malawi again after three years! He will be accompanied by Tom Wentz for this two-week volunteer mission trip. Joe has been raising funds to purchase a new multipurpose vehicle for Zomba Theological College. Purchased in 1997 when Joe and Hannah were still working there, the Isuzu truck, the only means of college transportation, became a huge headache to the college administration with its frequent breakdowns and costly repairs. A 2015 Toyota Hilux Twin Cab was locally purchased and money raised both in the States and South Korea has been wired to the college bank account for its final payment. Because of the high duty imposed by the Malawi Government, a brand new vehicle was not affordable. Yet, this two-year-old vehicle became, according to the Principal, Rev. Frank Mfune, a “realization of the dream for having another vehicle.” He informed Joe how excited and grateful the entire college community is for the generous gift. The truck is expected to serve multiple purposes such as taking sick students and family to the hospital, driving to funerals and other functions, moving goods for the college and using it for official transportation, etc. Joe and Tom will participate in the purchase and formally donate the vehicle to the college where Hannah and Joe left their hearts. Your prayers for their safe trip would be deeply appreciated. It is the first African trip for Tom, and he is very excited. He is going to preach at two different churches on two different Sundays. They are scheduled to arrive back in LA on May 26.

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HOW’S YOUR EMERGENCY WATER SUPPLY?

It’s recommended that we have emergency drinking water (bottled or canned) for 10 days. That’s 8 cups (1/2 gallon) per day just for drinking. We also need 1/2 gallon per day for brushing teeth and other uses.

You can buy bottled water at the grocery store. Pick up a small quantity each time you shop and you will always have a supply ready. Canned water is available at emergency supply stores, like Safe ‘n’ Ready at 245 S. Rosemead Blvd., or on-line.

Jane Vásquez

Bottled water with a 1-3 year shelf life.

Canned water with a 50-year shelf life.

PLEASE CONTINUE TO DONATE YOUR CANCELED STAMPS Thanks for the stamps you have donated! All kinds of stamps can be used; even pre-sort and ordinary flag stamps. All these canceled stamps are sent to the Japanese Christian Medical Society to help them raise money for their medical work in Tasmania, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Nepal. They send doctors and nurses, and also support medical students in Asian countries. Our stamps, and those sent by other groups, provide 10% of their budget.

Please continue to put them in the manila envelope on

the bulletin board by the bathrooms around the corner from the mailboxes, or in Mary Froede’s cubbie or the Ballenger cubbie. Please trim them off the envelope with a quarter-inch border all around, or just tear them off the envelope, and I will trim them. -- Judy Ballenger

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FROM OMG TO THANK YOU, GOD!

On Friday, March 31 Hannah traveled to Korea with our daughter Ruth and her two teenage daughters during their spring break. They spent their first three days in the South with Hannah’s brother, Simon. During this brief visit, among many other exciting excursions, they had a chance to stop by a family museum that one of Hannah’s nephews is running. There, Hannah for the first time in her life, learned that her grandfather became the first Christian in that region, baptized by an Australian missionary during the late 1800s.

They then headed to Seoul by bus late Tuesday evening where they planned on being through Friday, but upon checking in at their place in Seoul, Hannah realized she’d lost her purse at which time Ruth texted me. Everything including her passport, cell phone, DL, Medicare and credit cards plus cash was gone. My only response was, “OMG”. The next morning, Ruth and Hannah went to the US Embassy to apply for a new passport with newly taken passport photos. They had papers filled out but were unable to be seen, as they needed an appointment. Not having access to a computer, Ruth asked me via text to make the online appointment with the US embassy, and only one spot on Thursday morning at 9:30 was open. Friday, April 7 was their departure day.

In the meantime Hannah’s brother reported the loss to the departure terminal. The message was then transmitted to Seoul and the search began. The very next day on Wednesday evening Simon got a call from the terminal office and was told that the bag was found and was being kept in the Seoul terminal office. Hannah retrieved her bag that night with great joy. Nothing was missing.

My first response to the Ruth’s text message regarding the loss was, "OMG”. In the end, my message ended up with "Thank You, God!" at the news of recovery. This 24-hour ordeal had a miraculously happy ending! -- Joe Kang

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK – MAY 14-20, 2017

Our neighbors across the “Big Pond” in Great Britain and Ireland set apart a week each May to lift up the work of Christian Aid around the world. This year sees the 60th anniversary of Christian Aid Week. A few dedicated supporters took part in that first appeal in 1957. The tradition of churches holding an appeal in May goes back further to the end of the Second World War. In the latter stages of the war, a group of Christians outraged by the devastation and displacement of people in Europe came together through the British Council of Churches.

With the coming of peace, they saw an opportunity to hold an appeal on the first Sunday after V-Day to raise money for the relief and resettlement of some of those millions in Europe who were displaced and destitute. It is because of this that Christian Aid Week happens when it does – and it is the longest continually running fundraising campaign in Britain.

Reflecting on this, Paul Weller, Editor of CTBI (Churches Together In Britain and Ireland) says, “I am always struck by how Christians in this country were willing to give readily and generously, despite the immense hardship that faced them locally, to aid their former enemies. A contemporary report, now in the Christian Aid archive, states how this 'gave rise to the hope of our genuine understanding and concern for [the people of Europe], and of our desire to join with them in an effort to make Christ King amidst a world in ruins.’ I find a strong parallel here with the reading from Acts, where believers in Christ gave to all as they had need, and praised God, having the goodwill of all the people.”

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THE ART OF LETTING GO

As we age, our bodies begin to experience wear and tear, also known as “twinges in the hinges.” This can mean giving up something that we’ve always done. Perhaps our hearing declines or our eyesight. Maybe we have to give up driving or our balance is not good enough to dance anymore.

Giving up our freedoms or being no longer able to do favorite activities can cause depression or grieving. This is part of the process of letting go. Letting go doesn’t mean we have no alternatives. We have opportunities to learn new things, gain new skills, or take trips to new places. Maybe those places are day trips to see interesting things in our area, instead of long trips by car or plane, but we can savor new experiences in the rich environment of Pasadena or Los Angeles.

Working through depression or grief is a process that takes time. Thinking about what will be missed and accepting the fact that it will no longer be a part of your life is a big step, but a necessary one. Sometimes we need help to work through it.

A big milestone here is transitioning from Independent Living to the Hearth. One resident said, “I’d rather die than move into the Hearth.” That person has been in the Hearth for more than a year now. Perhaps we, too, dread downsizing and moving into a more controlled environment. Yet there are many interesting activities or lunch at a special restaurant to look forward to. Another resident said it’s like a village; there’s a sense of community.

In 1994 I had a mild stroke that kept me off from work for a month. It was a scary time, and a time of grieving, of knowing that things would never be quite the same. I had no lasting effects except some slight aphasia. Since that time, I have learned new skills like silk painting, writing, designing jewelry and crocheted items. My life is rich and happy, and while I miss some of the things that I can no longer do, I take pride in the new skills I’ve learned. I also enjoy volunteering in different areas. It’s a chance to see people and interact with them. Getting older doesn’t mean we stop living; we just go about it in a different way. I like the saying “We don’t stop laughing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop laughing.” -- Judy Post

SPREADING ASHES – A WAY TO REMEMBER

Shortly after my wife Marilyn died on October 25 last year, an idea struck me that seemed inspired by God. While most of her cremated ashes would be put in a columbarium at our church, what if I spread some of them at the five places we lived together before moving to Monte Vista Grove in 2003? I could gather people who remembered us and we would say prayers, put a pinch of her ashes in a church garden, and tell stories of her life and influence. Marilyn loved traveling and I knew she would like being with old friends if she were still alive. So I drove to Littleton, Colorado for a March 5 memorial in the memory garden of Columbine United Church where we served from 1992 to 1999. In our prayers and stories we remembered Marilyn’s gentle encouragement…loyalty…sensitivity…creativity…compassion…wisdom. Among those attending were several who had joined Marilyn and me on eight different international trips in the past, and we planned a Mississippi River excursion this coming September/October. Her spirit will surely be with us.

(Continued on p. 14)

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(Continued from p. 13) The next Sunday, March 12, I was in Tucson at First Christian Church where Marilyn and I lived from 1981 to 1992. That gathering included her brother Martin and his wife, three different cousins (one came all the way from Solvang near Santa Barbara), and the families of two of my daughters, Karen and Amy, who live in Tucson. As we spread pinches of ashes in the church patio, Karen and her cousin played a flute/ cello duet – beautiful! Both experiences were moving and far exceeded my expectations. The last week in April I will drive to Mill Valley in Marin County and Olympia, Washington for two more memorials at the churches we served between 1964 and 1981. My final trip will be to Warren Wilson College near Asheville, North Carolina in June. My grandson Nico and I will be on a road trip from Florida to Boston and we will stop to celebrate Marilyn’s life with students and faculty who were at the college between 1960 and 1964. For me, this special time of spreading ashes with those who remember Marilyn from the past is a time of sadness at her passing but also gladness that her spirit lives on in our memories. -- Jim Symons

FUGITIVE DEMOCRACY AND OTHER ESSAYS by Sheldon Wolin (1922-2015) edited by Nicholas Xenos. (Princeton, 2016, published posthumously). Readers of Tidings will remember that in the 2016 November issue we were urged to listen to the you-tube interviews between Chris Hedges (b. 1956, son of Rev. Thomas Hedges, a Presbyterian ) and Sheldon Wolin on the question of “Can Capitaism & Democracy Coexist?” These interviews are in eight (8) parts lasting close to three hours, but they are well worth our investment of time and attention. Sheldon Wolin was the political theorist who taught at Princeton University from 1973-1987. After graduating from Oberlin College (where he also taught), he earned his Ph.D. from Harvard University. He has taught at the University of California in Berkeley and Santa Cruz, as well as Oxford and Cornell University. His fame as a preeminent theorist of Politics grew after the publication of Politics and Vision: Continuity and Innovation in Western Political Thought. (Princeton University Press, 1960, 2004). Unlike George H. Sabine (1880-1961), A History of Political Theory (1937), where the author (Sabine) focused only on a series of theory going as far back as Plato’s Republic, Wolin’s comprehensive purview includes both practice as well as theory. In short, his emphasis is that political theory is primarily a civic activity, while theory is confined to academia. In Fugitive Democracy, Wolin reviews the essays he has written over the decades, noting his own preoccupation with democracy. He suggests that academic theory is to “illuminate the concrete by the abstract, the particular by the systematic,” with a primary purpose of understanding the “present predicament” we as a nation are in. -- Review by Franklin Woo

(to be continued in June Tidings)

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Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

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1:00 -- Communion In Hearth 4:00 -- Vesper Service in HC

6 8:00 – noon

SPRING EVENT

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10 8:00 -- Water Aerobics in Pool

10:30 -- Music Class In Hearth

2:00 -- Seasons Gamble Rm. 5:30 -- Dinner (Res. required)

11 10:00 -- Writing Class In Marwick 4:00 -- Convocation In Marwick 5:30 -- Dinner (Reservation required)

14 Noon -- MOTHER’S DAY

LUNCHEON in MARWICK

4:00 -- Vesper Service in HC

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9:00 -- Exercise Class In Marwick

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10:00 – Writing Class in Marwick 4:00 – Convocation in Marwick

5:30 – Dinner (Res. required)

6:15 -- S. Hennesy Gamble Rm.

17 8:00 -- Water Aerobics in Pool

10:30 -- Music Class In Hearth 1:00 -- 4:00 Stores open

5:30 – Dinner (Reservation required)

16

9:00 -- Exercise Class In Marwick

10:00 – Tues. Musicale In Marwick

11:00 – Pilates Class in the Hearth

15 The Tidings DEADLINE

23

9:00 -- Exercise Class In Marwick

11:00 -- Pilates Class In Marwick

22

21

4:00 – Vesper Service in HC

20 19

9:00 – Exercise Class In Marwick

4:00 – 5:00 Wine & Nibbles Gamble Rm.

24 8:00 – Water Aerobics in Pool

10:30 – Music Class In Hear 5:30 – Dinner (Reservation required)

26

9:00 -- Exercise Class In Marwick

25 10:00 -- Writing Class In Marwick 4:00 – Convocation in Marwick

5:30 – Dinner (Reservation required)

31 8:00 – Water Aerobics in Pool

10:30 – Music Class In Hearth

Noon – Resident Trustees Luncheon Marwick

5:30 – Dinner (Reservation required)

30

9:00 – Exercise Class In Marwick

11:00 – Pilates Class In Marwick

29

Memorial Day

(Office is closed)

9

9:00 -- Exercise Class In Marwick

11:00 – Pilates Class In Marwick

1:00 -- Pray for Africa Gamble Rm.

27

28 4:00 – Vesper Service in HC

Please Note:

Not all activities are included.

MAY

1

2

9:00 -- Exercise Class In Marwick

11:00 -- Pilates Class In Marwick

1:00 -- Pray for Africa Gamble Rm.

3 8:00 -- Water Aerobics in Pool

10:30 -- Music Class In Hearth 5:30 -- Dinner (Reservation required)

4 10:00 -- Writing Class In Marwick 4:00 -- Convocation In Marwick 5:30 -- Dinner (Reservation required)

5

9:00 -- Exercise Class In Marwick 4:00 – 5:00 Wine & Nibbles Hearth Family Rm. & Patio

16

MAY BIRTHDAYS

Don Hawthorne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 01 Mary Lou Lorimer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 01 Martin Miller-Hessel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 01 Ruth Suzuki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 02 Noreen Nazarian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 07 Norman Stanhope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 10 Gene Terpstra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 12 Edmundo Vásquez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 14 Dave Tomlinson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 17 Jacquie Terpstra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 29

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THE TIDINGS MONTE VISTA GROVE HOMES

Executive Director: Deborah Herbert President of the Residents’ Association: Marilyn Manning

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