January 15, 2024

The other day, I was in the waiting room at a doctor’s office and struck up a conversation with the woman sitting next to me. When she found out I work at a senior center, her first reaction was a negative one: “oh, God, that must be so depressing!” she said.

I told her that, on the contrary, my job is the most inspiring and rewarding job I’ve ever had in my 50+ year career. She was surprised to hear me say this, especially after she learned about my previous jobs, including decades in the TV news industry.

But when I described in more detail what the Pasadena Senior Center is and what it offers, this woman, who had recently retired, became intrigued. I gave her several examples of how our Center’s programs exemplify our motto: “aging in place, thriving in motion.” She smiled as she put the business card I offered her in her purse.

Sadly, this misconception people have of “senior centers” is one that I have come across before. The sad part is that the stereotype keeps people afraid of accepting their age while missing out on activities and new friendships that can prolong their vitality.

I have to be completely honest with you: I didn’t have a clear picture in my mind of what a senior center is, when I first applied for this job. Before I interviewed for my position as executive director, I walked through the Center one morning. “Could I be in charge? Could I make a difference?” I wondered, as I looked around. What I saw impressed me: I heard frequent laughter, saw people deep in serious conversation, playing piano, playing pool. I heard some tap dancing going on somewhere. The energy and joy I saw made me want to be part of this place. I have been grateful for this position ever since.

Each year, I do two things: I take time to walk slowly through the Center’s lobby, soaking up the energy of the place: taking pleasure in the fact that I know names and faces of people, that members are enjoying a game of dominoes or speaking in Spanish or French, hurrying to Hector’s Zumba class. It feels more vibrant to me than the first time I walked through, and that makes me so happy.

The other thing I do is spend some time in the lobby at the Center when no one else is there: I close my eyes and give thanks that I found my way here and that I get to make a difference. Even when no one is around, I feel the energy and presence of our members.

As this new year begins, let us all vow to make our journey through this year count. May we seek and find joy in every day, doing things that surprise and delight us.