Life in a retirement village is very different to living in one’s  own property.

In my own home I could go out any time I wanted, I knew my surroundings and where to shop for the best bargains, where to have my car serviced and where to have clothing alterations done. I had kind neighbours  but at times it could be lonely. Proverbs 25:17 often came to mind. “Seldom set foot in your neighbour’s house. Too much of you and he will hate you”. I couldn’t make a nuisance of myself.

At the retirement village I must hang a red ribbon on my door if I go out. I may not take a walk outside – elderly people are vulnerable. The lifts in the building are set to open and close slowly so that the elderly can manage to get in and out comfortably, especially those using ‘walkers’ and wheelchairs.  It takes a lot of getting used to.

However, there is always company available.  At teatime and lunchtime there are plenty of people to chat to and I have made quite a few new friends. There is an English church service on Sunday evenings and I get to know about other denominations. I also entertain the residents by playing many of the old songs on the piano, which they appreciate very much. There are far more opportunities here  to let one’s light shine (Matthew 5:16 ).

Another bonus is that there are a lot of activities to take part in, outings to places I would not otherwise see, card games (not my scene) and bingo ( very sociable).

I rejoice that God took me out of my comfort zone and put me in a place where I could serve Him much more effectively..