SENIOR SCAPE: Kind Words

February 5, 2014 · 0 Comments

Kind Words for Fellow Members
By Sylvia Dickens

In a world where criticism is commonplace, it’s refreshing to stumble upon conversations that offer kind words.
Last week, I visited the Centre for the first time in perhaps two months. It was not a big day for my favorite activities, but the pool room was available, as always. Two other players entered the room when I arrived around noon. Before long, two other gentlemen came in and ventured to the opposite corner by the beautiful bright windows.
As we all focused on our individual games, several seniors wandered in to say hello and share a few thoughts. That’s when one of them mentioned an absentee player who was “not doing well”. Several men quickly added that he was a great guy, very likeable and a great player. Perhaps they were talking about someone else as they continued their exchanges.
One gentleman they mentioned was an avid pool player and golfer who also is not doing well lately. The speaker reflected on the fact the player was “about 200 years old” and also a great guy, easy going, and absolutely amazing at both sports.
At one point, they walked over to the bulletin board to look at a photo of one of the men being discussed. I couldn’t resist peeking over their shoulders to see someone I believe I recognize and I have a pretty good idea who else they were discussing.
The man I’m thinking of smiled constantly, whether he made his shot or not. Clearly, to him it was more about enjoying time with people who gave him pleasure than about winning. He just had fun!
That’s what’s great about the Centre. Overheard discussions often reveal such heart-warming exchanges.

Pool Tips
Would you like to try your hand at pool? Or have you missed the game you haven’t played since your youth?
If you’d like to get started playing this popular game, or need a refresher, visit the pool room and speak to any of the players. Let them know you’d like to learn or join a game.
For one-on-one tips, there are a few players who would gladly volunteer their expertise. Drop into Karie’s office, which is right next door to the pool room.
She can put you in touch by phone with one of several volunteers who can introduce you to the game.
While mostly men use the room, there are a few women who play, and there could be lots more. Don’t be shy.

A rowdy group
Aren’t card players supposed to remain quiet because they are deep in thought about which cards to play and which to hold? Last Thursday, it was quite the opposite. They were almost rowdy, in fact.
I believe it was the poker players who had been moved to the larger room next to the workshop. Last time I saw them, they were crammed into a small back corner of the craft room. On that earlier occasion, they were equally rowdy. What is it about poker players? As far as I could tell, it wasn’t strip poker. Imagine if it were.
Even the bid euchre players were rather noisy. Maybe all this winter weather has them a little antsy, ready for the joys of spring, which aren’t that far off, by the way.

For more information on the Aurora Seniors’ Centre and all it has to offer, drop by 90 John West Way, visit the web site www.auroraseniors.ca, email auroraseniors@rogers.com or call 905-726-4767 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday to Friday.