Story Time for Seniors
by Michelle Kicherer of www.BananaPitch.com
It was story time for seniors. Nine of us sat in the library. No lights were on, but it was morning and the sun was out. Esmerelda sprawled on the chaise lounge.
“Are you comfortable, Essie?” I asked her.
Esmerelda nodded. The fur that lined her slippers swayed as she crossed her legs. She sat her yarn and needles on her lap; refolded the blanket she was making and laid it across her legs.
“Did you want to start today?”
She nodded and waited as the last person joined the story time for seniors group.
Alfred waved and hobbled through the room. He smiled and sat his cane against his chair. “Sorry I’m late,” he said.
“So, I think we have everyone,” I said, winking at Alfred. I turned to Esmerelda. “Esmerelda is going to start today. Essie?”
“Okay.” She sat up in her chair and brought both of her hands up. She waved one slowly from right to left, as if displaying prizes in a game show. She glowed as she began. “Once upon a time there was a girl named Essie…”
The story went on from there. I can’t say I recall all the details – a teenage crush on a candy shop clerk; after school shenanigans at the beach; losing someone’s dog but finding it a week later with a ribbon tied around its head. But I do recall the gradual shift in the room as everyone relaxed into Esmerelda’s story. Shoulders loosened; smiles shined on faces; residents nodded in agreement at feelings and places they recognized.
It was like that every Saturday morning, and I have to say it must have been the best part of everyone’s week. Sharing stories; reliving youths; experiencing others insights; feeling connected. Myself and the entire west wing of the senior home, doing nothing but talking, sharing.
Story time for seniors: I highly recommend it.