An annual “fall back” period occurs every year… time retreats one hour, and circadian rhythms respond in maniacal ways. Mood swings appear, heart attacks rise in number, sleep is interrupted, even an increase in car crashes has been reported. Undoubtedly, there is heightened stress just wondering whether all clocks have been set back... and “shouldn’t this be another time?”
Well, pilgrims never had these problems. In lieu of time changes, they had Thanksgiving, a three-day celebration, ignoring time. We celebrate only on the fourth Thursday of November, with guest checklists lacking the diversity of their 1621 get-together.
The Pilgrims, early settlers who fled England to escape religious persecution, lived strict, disciplined lives guided by faith and necessity. They faced fear, illness, harsh conditions, and uncertainty daily. Yet they were not alone. The Wampanoag people, led by Chief Massasoit, observed these struggling newcomers and chose compassion. They taught the Pilgrims how to plant crops, fish, forage, build shelters, and use native plants as medicine. Over time, the two communities formed alliances, shared resources, defended one another, and ultimately celebrated the harvest together, as we now call it, the first Thanksgiving.
That historic feast looked very different from ours today: venison, duck, and perhaps wild turkey; corn and squash but no pumpkin pie; wool dresses, leather shoes, loincloths, and moccasins around the table; even bows, arrows, and muskets nearby. Both groups—honoring God or many gods—expressed gratitude for survival and abundance.
What does any of this historical diatribe have to do with Senior Living?
Pilgrims took care of each other: families searched for ways to improve their seniors' lives. Much like those who reach out to trusted resources such as Bridge to Better Living, pilgrims looked at nearby Natives. Wampanoag tribe members knew where to go, what was best, and believed in caring for their elders, similar to Transition Consultants.
Pilgrims knew survival was imperative. Nutrition was basic to survival. They learned to hunt and fish, needing protein. An active lifestyle was adhered to.
Pilgrims socialized by playing games, sharing stories, and welcoming new friends into their social circles.
Today we are all Pilgrims in some way, searching for the best solutions to the Aging Process. Bridge to Better Living is the answer. Transition Consultants have gathered resources to assist “newcomers” to a world where Independent, Assisted, Memory Assisted, and Long-Term Care are interconnected. Bridge to Better Living keeps Seniors and their loved ones safe and well cared for. Put on your Pilgrim Hat (or Indian feathers) and contact Bridge to Better Living today for a NO-COST to the client service. You will be grateful.
Happy Thanksgiving!