The following story is part of a joint project between myLifeSite and Senior Correspondent where people report on their senior living decision process.
By Missie Greenwood
Even now, in my eighth decade, I am teaching myself to play the organ.
It may seem unusual to some that, living in a retirement community, I continue to learn and grow. For me, however, it is a joy. Music has always been central to my life.
I grew up in a home filled with joy, compassion, and music. My mother taught my siblings and me to sing and play instruments, and she gave us the patience needed for the long journey of learning. Because of her guidance, I can adapt to almost any musical setting and often play the piano by ear.
I adapted quickly to life at Lake Prince Woods, a continuing care retirement community set on 172 wooded acres in Suffolk, Virginia. I was a charter resident 15 years ago when the community welcomed its first occupants. I still remember shouting with joy when my son told me I had been accepted: “I’m going to Lake Prince Woods!”
I visited many communities before deciding, but none matched what Lake Prince Woods offered. The community’s continuing care model includes a benevolence fund that can support me if I ever need long-term assistance, and knowing that brings great peace of mind.
Living here means I no longer worry about maintaining a house, and my family does not have to worry about my care. Those are real reliefs.
What makes life here especially fulfilling is the chance to be myself and to share my musical gifts. I believe God led me here so I could touch others through music.
I participate in several musical groups and programs that are easy to join and conveniently held on-site. From recitals and concerts to bands and cabarets, there are diverse opportunities to perform and to enjoy music. I find myself involved in many activities without ever needing to leave the community.
Who knew there could be such melody, even now?
About the Writer
Fletcher “Missie” Greenwood performs with several musical groups at Lake Prince Woods, a senior living community in Suffolk, Virginia, where she is a charter resident. Raised in a musical family, she inherited from her mother the patience and skill to play multiple instruments and to adapt musically in many settings.