As age catches up !

The year is coming to an end and its the time of the year when youshould take stock of the year that has gone and the one to come.I would say that 2011 has been a most eventful year ,most important is that we have been able to see it through and can optimistically look forward to yet another year.
As we age ,the young ones grow.Our children have become matured and are managing their own lives.The grandchildren are also growing and its good to be able to see them developing physically and mentally.As for us,there is satisfaction knowing that in one way or other we have been responsible in bringing this about.
To us bringing up a family has always been interpersed with a culture of giving without ever thinking of receiving.Even today if I need anything there is never a thought of asking anyone for it as I can get it myself.We have always been independent and learned to fend for ourselves.We are not like other parents ,some of whom who would insist that their children repay them for whatever reasons.For us seeing our children growing up to be useful and steadfast people is satisfying enough and watching them run their own lives is something else.We may not agree with some of the things they do but we prefer to watch quietly by the sideline as we understand how children feel about parental interference unlike the old days when parents would impose their will on their children thus creating unnecessary stress and conflict.
As we grow older we do worry a little bit about where we are going to be.We have our own house but we realise that because of the grandchildren we have to be around to help.This is yet another sacrifice which we happily make.But what would happen when we are no longer able to do so? Sometimes I wonder what would happen if one of us were to go.For mum she can survive but for how long?How long before she cannot do what she is doing now?For sure the children cannot look after her because of their work and lack of time.So do we stay around and become a burden? Odd is'nt it that as you age you progressively become redundant and when the time comes when you are old and helpless what happens?