Caring
3 most important things in youth and old age
What matters most to you? That’s the question photojournalist Nancy Hill from YES! Magazine asked 11 people over 70 and 10 children 7 and under.
“We live among such remarkable people, yet few know their stories,” Hill says. “Why do we show such little appreciation for people beyond a certain age?” And so she set out to listen to the voiceless, and the responses she received are truly illuminating.
Over-70s
- “Meeting new people, writing poetry and stories, reading books.” – Magdaleno Rose-Avila, workers’ rights activist
- “My wife, my dog, going out in a meaningful way.” – Alex Panasenko, war veteran
- “Physical and mental health, a healthy relationship with my family and fellow human beings, spiritual health.” – Frank Thompson, former prison warden
- “Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, keeping an open mind, family and friends.” – Starr Farrell, cancer survivor
- “Always being a good listener, a kind word, being trustworthy.” – Nancy Sims, retired hospital administrator
- “My work, my health, my dear people.” – Judith Arcana, writer and activist
- “Education and development, spirituality, eternal optimism.” – Akhila Mudigonda, Indian immigrant
- “Family, good health, the next generation.” – Grant Tetsuka, retired teacher
- “My family, God, being thankful.” – Hattie Lechlitner, grandmother of 12
- “Family, exercise, retirement.” – Lillian Tetsuka, former secretary and wife of Grant
- “Honouring my health, valuing my friends, practicing my faith.” – Ann Teresi, gourmet cook
Under-7s
- “Mummy, daddy and Elora, food and water, games.” – Lucca, 6
- “Family, sisters, Bo (dog).” – Nia, 6
- “Mum, dad, Declan.” – Pippi, 7
- “My buddies, my stuffed animal, my Star Wars stuff.” – Carson, 5
- “Papa, grandpa, uncle Steve.” – Colton, 6
- “Mommy, papa, cartoons.” – Indiana, 7
- “Uncle Buddy, my crazy dog, soccer.” – Orrin, 6
- “Playing with friends, swimming, riding bikes.” – Payton, 6
- “To be nice to your friends, listen to your teachers and mum, drawing numbers.” – Avayah, 4
- “Cuddling with my mum, dad and brother, my toy cars.” – Michael, 6
Tell us in the comments below, what’s the most important thing in your life?
Related links:
Why do women live longer than men?
7 cultures that celebrate the elderly
How to comfort your friend in any situation