Do not abandon me in old age

In our current society, which often idolizes youth and views old age as a burden, Pope Francis' message for the 2024 World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, "Do not abandon me in old age," resonates with special urgency.

Pope Francis highlights the importance of closeness between different generations, especially between grandparents and grandchildren, and between the young and the elderly. He invites young people to bring joy to the hearts of the elderly and to gain wisdom from their experiences. He also encourages moving from imagination to the realization of concrete gestures to embrace grandparents and the elderly and to not leave them alone, recognizing their irreplaceable role in the family, society, and the Church.

God, in His infinite wisdom and love, never abandons His creatures. He does not discard any stone, no matter how "old" it may seem. He always shows His mercy at every stage of life ("from generation to generation") and in any condition we find ourselves. In the Bible, aging is a sign of blessing, a stage of life that is celebrated and respected, as Pope Francis reminds us in his message.

However, in our modern world, this sacred perspective is often forgotten. We live in a culture that increasingly rejects the "old" and venerates the "new." Social media filters erase wrinkles, cosmetic surgeries promise eternal youth, while loneliness and abandonment become real fears for many elderly people.

The digital and technological divide also causes significant exclusion and marginalization for older adults. Many often feel marginalized due to technological and scientific advancements, as they do not receive the necessary education to keep up with these rapid changes. This lack of access and knowledge can create tensions and difficulties in fully participating in today's digitized society.

It is common to encounter people who feel lost in the digital world, completely unaware of certain internet applications and technological devices. We have all witnessed the difficulties our grandparents face when trying to open an email account or make transfers or withdrawals of their social pension. Tasks that were once so simple, like paying a phone bill, have now become true odysseys for our elderly. It is important to address this gap and ensure that all people, regardless of age, have the opportunities and resources necessary to benefit from technological advancements and overcome any barriers that may exist.

There is a palpable tension between generations, an accusation that the elderly are "stealing" the future from the young, often coming from the upper echelons of power. In many states, they are considered disposable and unproductive, and it is erroneously believed that their care takes away resources from the country's development. But what happens when strength wanes and the illusion of individualism fades away? We find ourselves in need of absolutely everything, but in solitude, without help, without someone to rely on. "And by the time this happens," Pope Francis points out, "it is too late."

This is where the story of Ruth and Naomi offers us a valuable lesson. Ruth, a young woman, chooses not to abandon her mother-in-law Naomi in her old age. Naomi seems to dismiss her daughters-in-law because she feels like a heavy burden, effectively believing she is robbing them of their future.

Despite the uncertainty of the path ahead, Ruth responds to Naomi, "Do not urge me to leave you" (Ruth 1:16). Both decide to embark together on the journey back to Bethlehem.

Naomi, like many elderly people today, fears being left alone. As a society, we are called to be companions on the journey, just as Ruth was for Naomi. We must show tenderness towards our grandparents, learn from their wisdom, and walk alongside them. Pope Francis' message for this day exhorts us to demonstrate our tenderness towards the grandparents and elderly people in our families, visiting those who feel discouraged or have lost hope for a different future. The Pope reminds us that by being close to the elderly, we will also receive many gifts, graces, and blessings. In old age, let us not abandon one another. Instead, let us celebrate life at every stage and remember that each of us has immense value in the eyes of God, no matter our age.

What important lessons have you learned from your grandparents? Share those valuable teachings that have left a mark on your life.