Who would cry when they hear Joy to the World? Or say along with faraway looks to Danny Boy? My cadets played a Christmas concert at a seniors' home yesterday, and it is just so sad. I mean, they played well, and the residents seemed to enjoy the music, but it is just sad seeing them there. The home is a little off the highway, but it just seemed like the world has forgotten them, and didn't want to be inconvenienced anymore, and so have quarantined them there. I know that the staff provide excellent care, and many need around the clock help that their adult children probably couldn't provide, but still. It is like my little haphazard band was the highlight of their day, and perhaps week. I kinda want to practice there every week, to bring some joy to their lives. Throughout the hour we were there, we saw visitors come and go, and it was snowing outside, so it really began to look like Christmas. But you have to wonder what Christmas at a home would be like. Maybe a little like spending Christmas stationed on a military base far from home. Except for these old people that our world has forgotten, where is home?
2 comments:
I don't see it this way. Like you said, people arranged them to be there. Most likely, those people will have the "around the clock" time during Christmas and be with them. "Home" can also be defined as a place where your family is. So they are home during that time. For those whose family no longer exists, or truly couldn't care, their home is at this place were people care about each other. They are also home during Christmas.
Not that sad, and perhaps the best compromise for all.
There are seniors who don't want to be there, but there are many who do. They don't want to burden their offspring so much physically. They want company with fellow seniors who understand one another. I know someone who likes to be there. Your band is an excellent addition to this joyous season.
I would probably call the whole situation a little sadness in joy.
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