[Klara]

Hi Azulparsnip,

I think I'm beginning to like your Mr. H. :>)

But interesting what you wrote: The history and future of your nation......

Ah, and the present?? what a mess in so many ways. But we believe we are here in order to fix the mess - kind of same dream as Kushi's tho his is based on food and other ideas and ours is based on what we believe are the Laws as passed on directly to us - I better be careful here - there are some who don't care to read about this religious stuff, so that's ok - funny I've posted before - some things that are religious that have been written by Michio and others never get negative reactions - but sadly I don't have the feeling that would also apply to anything I might write, so I'll try not to (boy, restricting oneself, that's not easy!!!!!!!)

the big dilemna today is people feel often helpless - and that's where we and mb feel differently - each person can do something to better this world. I think you're working with Mr. H is part of that - it's good that the elderly feel they are still giving and have worth - alot of my sadness with my father's passing is I felt he was alone way too much - he was proud that he didn't need anyone's help, that he was still quite functional and can do alot by himself, still, I felt so very badly afterwards that we didn't spend alot more time together and that we didn't appreciate him so much more. Was reading from Dr. Patch's book (called House Calls - How we can all heal the world one visit at a time) (he's amazing!!!!!!) how important it is to visit the elderly, here's what he wrote (I'm sure he wouldn't mind my sharing this, it's what he's all about!!): Here, the key is showing up. So much of our elderly population is lonely and disconnected from family and society. Many live unhappy lives in nursing homes. I encourage everyone to visit our elderly, whether in their home, hospital, or nursing home. Stick around, listen to their tales, and catch them up with you and the world. Try not to be in a hurry. Learn to be comfortable in their often shrunken world. Be ready to walk slowly and speak louder. do not assume that their interests and enthusiasms have waned.

Have the patience to wade through their resignations and feelings of being a burden until you find the sparkle in their eyes. They often feel that peoople look through them and have put them on the shelf. Be respectful and interested in their history and wisdom. Include them in your outings. If you're looking to feel better about yourself, go regularly to nursing homes and be a companion, going from bed to bed. Touch people, sing to them, and get their blood flowing. You can palpably see them come to life (and the same may happen to you!).

All of Patch Adams' works are gems - as is everything he has done. What he says about being with elderly probably applies to everyone. Everyone needs respect and attention.

Now that's fixing the world!!!

Klara