Christmas Caroling

It was delightful to see so many girls participate at this particular girls' group meeting today. (Only half of the girls are pictured.) These young ladies brought such joy to the residents at Santa Maria Nursing Home with their smiling faces, musical talent and joy. I only wish this happened more than once per year. Many of the resident's faces light up at the presence of the youth. They are grateful for something as simple as a holy card being handed to them.

I used to be afraid of people in nursing homes. I often didn't know any of them. What could I say to them? I always felt helpless and useless. It is so clear to me now that I am older. Many of them are starving for a simple smile, a kind word, a hug or kiss on the cheek. No matter how many different personalities you many find amongst the residents, they all have one thing in common and that is the desire to be loved because they are a person. I love old people, especially the ones in nursing homes. They teach us to be selfless. They are the face of Christ.