From the Board President
Betsy Pollock has been President of the Board of Directors of the Brookline Senior Center since 1986. She is also a lifelong resident of Brookline and a community activist.
Rooting for Growth
A few short months ago I planted seedlings in my garden. A friend once remarked that a garden is about hope. Though I watered my flowers and tomato plants regularly, mostly regularly, some flourished, some did not.
Now I’m digging in bulbs, which will bloom in the Spring, and I’m looking forward to repeating this summer’s successes next year, with all winter to choose some new perennials and annuals. Once again, I’ll dig, water, and hope.
Contemplating new beginnings can be challenging
That is especially true when outside of our comfort zone. This summer I learned how to play Mahjong. I was reluctant to register for classes; I doubted my aptitude for numbers and patterns. There were a hundred reasons not to begin. Then I thought about the other times in my life when trying something new opened up new opportunities. I’m glad I remembered. I doubt I’ll compete in the World Mahjong Championship but I’m having fun learning about the tiles and the rules, enjoying meeting new people, spending time with friends, and laughing along the way.
What’s on your “stretch” bucket list?
Pickleball? Bridge? Joining a Book Group? Sewing a quilt? Learning how to paint? Exercising daily? Baking a three -layer cake? Traveling somewhere you’ve never been? Hosting a party? Writing in a journal? Organizing photos? Reconnecting with friends and family? Camping? Canoeing? Sailing? Hiking? Biking? Swimming? Ziplining?Singing? Acting? Improv? Playing a new instrument?
Whatever it is, I hope you give it a try and it brings you joy!
Sometimes, like caring for plants, we need to nurture ourselves, hope for the best, and keep an eye out for opportunities.
Warm regards,
Betsy Pollock, MSW
Brookline Senior Center Foundation Board President