Bus Stops and Endings
There is new signage at our bus stop in front of Roland Park Place (RPP), and I love it!
Don’t be fooled, friends. Those people are real. Those expressions are real. Those fabulous faces are RPP residents.
I am so glad we changed the signage because what was there before was looking ratty because of bus stop vandals. Bus stop vandalism and graffiti is increasing.
If you witness bus stop vandalism or property damage, please report it to the local transit operator or call the non-emergency 311 police line.
As I was checking out our new bus stop look, a gentleman who was waiting for the bus said to me, “Do you work at Roland Park Place?” I said, “I do!” He said, “I thought so because of your sweatshirt (yes, I was wearing my RPP sweatshirt, and for those in the know, this is not a uniform – that is an inside joke.) The gentleman continued… “I notice your employees smoking at the bus stop. I wish they wouldn’t. I think it’s illegal.” I am not sure if it is illegal, but I told him I would share his message with the appropriate people.
After an eventful day at work, when I arrived home, a woman who was sharing the elevator with me said, “Do you work at Roland Park Place?” I said, “I do!” She said, “I thought so.” (Again, my sweatshirt gave me away. I wonder if she knows this is not a uniform. Again, an inside joke, and as I write this, I am seriously laughing out loud, and thinking of you, BB.) She continued the conversation… “I am on the list to live there and a few other people in our building are on the list, too.” I said, “I am not surprised! It’s a fabulous place.” I kid you not when she said, “I heard they have a nice memory care unit. Our friends living there love the programs and special events, and music. They love the pool, too.” I never told her I am the Manager of the Programs and Special Events Department, but was pleased to hear her comments. (Regardless of my contribution, Roland Park Place has always had stellar programs and music, and hardworking employees running the department.)
At this point, it’s worth mentioning that I officially resigned from my position today, and I am staying on until RPP finds a new manager.
I don’t like endings, as if anyone does. I don’t fear the unknown, but attachment and separation become my issue. It’s starting to sink in that this experience as I know it will permanently come to an end.
My memories are long. I have photos, stories, and blogs to support what has been rewarding and educational. This was bootcamp, and how lucky I am to learn from the pros or as I call them, the aging masters. As one resident said to me, “This is trial and error, baby.” Indeed.
One of my biggest takeaways, age is more than a simple numerical value because it reflects biological realities, accumulated life stages and psychological changes. I hope I am up to the challenge. I have my doubts.
I am sure I will have more to say, but for now, these are my thoughts, for better or worse.
At the moment, I am sad. Tomorrow, I hike. Nature is healing. – paerki
