Dear Rosemary

[MacDonnell1973]

I attend a parish here in Eugene and a member named Rosemary, a darling English born elderly woman, constantly forgets who I am. Nearly every Sunday I show up in my kilt, she compliments my attire, and without fail says the following...


"If I hadn't been born English, I would love to have been born Scottish."

Followed by this story.

As a young girl in WWII she witnessed the Scottish Regiment coming over the hill to fight along side the English. The English joked about Scotland sending girls to the battle. Among the murmurings were questions about what was under the kilts. Once the soldiers were lined along the street, English on one side, Scots on the other, the Scottish official ordered his men to "Pick daisies" whereupon the regiment turned 'round and bent over to reveal that they were in fact wearing shorts underneath.

Then she and I have a good laugh. No matter how many times she tells me that story, I will listen and respond the same way.

[Highlander31]

That's a good story,...and you sir are a considerate gentleman. I'll bet your conversation helps make her morning.

[Ozark Ridge Rider]

Good on you, sir. I'll bet you make the old gentlewoman's day every time it happens.

How I would love to hear again some of the stories my grandparents and parents used to tell over and over.

I fear I will do it someday, too. Maybe my descendants will remember the family folklore better if they hear it repeatedly.

Regards,
Dan

[TecScot]

That's a good story and you're a good man.

[Kiltman]

Wonderful story. Thanks for treating Rosemary with respect. I know that how we treat our elders now is likely to be how we are treated in not too many years.

[Ian.MacAllan]

I pray that the Lord will continue to bless you and keep you, Mr. MacDonald. You are by your example teaching your younger parishioners how to treat their elders.

.

[Nighthawk]

That's a good story,...and you sir are a considerate gentleman. I'll bet your conversation helps make her morning.

I worked several years with people with dementia. You are so right about that. And people with the condition really need the few bright moments they can get- there are so few of them. This is really a great and touching story.

[BroosterB1]

Good for you! I have a lady (from Scotland) who does something similar. The point is we take time to make them feel that their memories are important.

Speaking of an Elder's perspective, take time to read "Water For Elephants", nothing about kilts, but a lot of perspective on aging.

[KFCarter]

I'll join the others in saying "well done" for your consideration of this wonderful lady!

[MacDonnell1973]

Thanks so much all. It is good to be a part of a community that cares for tradition and heritage. Our elders are our teachers, sages, and mentors.