99999 In our communities there are a group of people I am afraid are too often forgotten. Years ago these people were �out and about.� But that time is past . Now they are mainly confined to their home.

99999 After living an active life for many years it is difficult to become accustomed to being a shut-in. For example, there may no longer be the close association they enjoyed with some people. The activities that were enjoyed in years past are now only treasured memories. Therefore shut-ins can easily feel cut off from the world about them. These are some of the reasons why depression among the elderly today is a greater problem than many people realize.

99999 A challenge to those of us who are younger is to reach out to this special group of people. While we may have good intentions, it is easy to become neglectful. The following are some practical ideas to help us in remembering this special group of people:

99999 1. Make a telephone call to a shut-in at least once a week. A brief phone call will mean a lot to someone who may feel at times forgotten. To help you remember, select a certain time each week. For example, make Sunday afternoon as the time to make your call each week.

99999 2. Once a week send a �thinking of you� card to a shut-in. Everyone appreciates being remembered, including shut-ins. As in the previous suggestion, select a certain time each week you will send your card. For example, you may want to send a card to a shut-in every Monday.

99999 3. Once a month visit a shut-in. For some people who are shut-ins, they may go several days without talking to someone face to face. A brief and encouraging visit will do a lot to brighten their day. Something else shut-ins always enjoy is being told about news about their friends. It may help you to select a certain each month to visit a shut-in.

99999 Each of us has many responsibilities in our lives. It is so easy to feel too busy with the normal activities of life. But an important part of living a truly satisfying life is taking time for other people. As you reach out to express your love, care, and encouragement to shut-ins, you will receive these things in return.

99999999999999999999999999 Bruce Ligon

Life in the Real World,
The "Disease" Called "Worry"

Back to Articles and Sermons

Back to Plain Dealing Church of Christ