Message from the Chaplain: ‘The wisdom that mentors bring to our lives’

In reflection of Spiritual Care Week (23-29 October), Resthaven Coordinating Chaplain (Resthaven Murray Bridge and Leabrook), Nina Corlett-McDonald, shares her thoughts on wisdom.

Mentors are people who encourage, support and enable us to be the people we are meant to be; whether that’s in a new job, a new circumstance, or just in general, as we learn to live as respectful human beings. Whatever the case, having someone share our journey is important.

For me, like many, my parents were my first mentors. They taught me about faith, and acceptance of others — especially those who had fallen on hard times or were on the margins of community.

My first guitar teacher was a mentor. Not only did he teach me guitar but he also inspired my passion for music, and my faith.

And I can’t forget my favourite high school teacher, who inspired a strong sense of justice and compassion, but also made us feel that we could be the change in our world. He, too, modelled kindness and faithfulness.

The interesting thing about all of these people, and many others within my story, is that they were all older than me. They had life experience and wisdom.

We all need inspirational people in our life. They are there for us when things go well, but, more importantly, when things do not, and we need love and encouragement. They help to teach us resilience and courage.

As I continue to work alongside the older people in the Resthaven community, I can’t help but be inspired by the resilience they display — both in their past lives, and as they navigate their current path.

On 1 October, we celebrated International Day of the Older Person. This year’s theme was ‘Resilience of Older Persons in a Changing World’.

Technological advancements, wars, and changes in families — these are just some of the many things that impact older people, who may feel lonely, excluded, or devalued, as society changes rapidly around them.

All people have value, and in this moment, older people still have much to give, as they live alongside others here at Resthaven, in their interactions with staff and residents and families.

I thank them for sharing as they do and being a mentor to so many of us in this time and place. It is a privilege to walk alongside you.

Blessings to you and your families, as we head into the festive season.