Last month, I shared my experience with my back injury and the fabulous insights/changes I have made with the injury as catalyst.
This month, I would like to continue to share with you another surprise my back injury had in store for me!
My new schedule includes physical therapy sessions in San Francisco. I am unable to drive, and was unaware that access to the bus service to most parts of the Bay Area is very near my home.
My first day on the bus, I chose a seat next to an African American women, dressed colorfully, holding a large bucket that said “Happy Birthday”. In that moment I did not know that I was meeting one of my “Muses” that I call the “Gypsy”!
My Gypsy is one of 11 children. She is at least in her late 70’s, but has that ageless, shining face of the person who lives passionately. Gypsy was on her weekly trip to Reno. She takes the late Monday afternoon bus from Santa Rosa, switches in San Francisco and arrives in Reno, in time to enjoy a full night of slots and pure joy. She tells me, excitedly, that she has so much fun, she need not sleep.
On Tuesday afternoon, Gypsy takes the return bus route home, and rests before she returns to work on Wednesday morning. One might wonder why someone near the age of 80 still worked. Gypsy tells me that she that she cares for 3 elderly people, who rely on her assistance 24/7. Gypsy sees taking care of them as her “purpose”. Besides which, she says, “Who else is going to do it?”
A few months ago, Gypsy found herself weighed down with the responsibility for caring for “her people” around the clock. She began to feel trapped and resented the burden of her commitment.
Gypsy had a flash of creative insight. She knew that she would dearly love to travel and enjoy some freedom. She told me that she longed to be a gypsy, at this stage in her life. It quickly dawned on her that she would love go to Reno, as she was passionate about gambling.
Gypsy knew that one of her elderly people loved to go to visit the horses in the stables. Knowing that the stables are closed on Monday and Tuesdays, she launched her plan. Alternate care arrangements have been made for her “elderly” people on Mondays and Tuesdays. So they are now her “Reno” days!
This month is Gypsy’s birthday. The “Happy Birthday” bucket will return from Reno filled to the brim with small gifts for her “elderly” people.
I laugh and I cry as I sit next to her sharing the marvelous story of her life. In Gypsy I have found a model for “eldering” that is truly a gift! Happiest Birthday, Gypsy!
Take a moment this week and be on the lookout for one of your muses! Enjoy this greatest of gifts!
