A recent article I read states that the United Nations General Assembly has designated 1999 as International Year of Older Persons. The theme will be "Towards a Society of All Ages." This theme was chosen to promote the philosophy that societies should be inclusive in nature, should embrace all population groups, and share their resources equally. October 1st, 1998 will be the day that the UN launches this year long celebration, which is also the International Day of Older Persons, having its beginning in 1990.

The United States Planning Committee for this unique year recognizes aging as multi-dimensional and spanning every individual's lifelong development, the importance and contribution of Older Persons to intergenerational richness, the heterogeneity of the older population, and it's concern about the continuing poverty of many older persons and the necessity to provide adequate health care in the later years. The committee seeks to create opportunities for all of our citizens to understand, appreciate, and celebrate the contributions to nation, community, and family of older persons as citizens, caregivers, volunteers, and workers. The committee is working to focus attention on the challenge to our nation to ensure that the increases in life expectancy are matched by the increased opportunities for older persons to find fulfillment to these years. It also recognizes education as an enterprise that is lifelong and takes place in many different settings. It is the mission of this committee to encourage thoughtful planning of intergenerational projects, seminars, discussion groups and ethnic and cultural heritage programs in educational systems, corporations, religious organizations and the public and private sector. So dear readers of this warm thoughts column, be looking for special events in our community and be an active participant in this year honoring many of you.

Grandma and Grandpa: "I like to walk with grandma and grandpa. Their steps are shorter like mine. They don't say, 'Now, hurry up!' They always take their time. I like to walk with grandma and grandpa. Their eyes see things mine do. Wee pebbles bright, a funny cloud, half hidden drops of dew. Most people have to hurry. They do not stop and see, I'm glad God made grandma and grandpa unrushed and young like me." Author unknown. Celebrate "Towards a Society of All Ages" all year.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, October 1st, 1998

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Till next time,

Trina