Programs

    Fortitude – Content by Judy

    Posted on April 3, 2021 by Lyme / Old Lyme

    As I worked on my Vision Board for 2021, I searched for that all important key word – for me and for SeniorCenterCt.org. What one word was the best fit? What word would portray and define my path for 2021?

    Many businesses and individuals pick one word that best describes how they want to be characterized and/or strive to achieve in the upcoming year.

    Well, I wanted to do this as well but as much as I searched, I just could not find the right word. I kept at it. I would revisit and wander down the path of words I’d see from time to time. And yeah, there wasn’t ever quite the right fit until…

    This week I was walking along the ocean in Westbrook for the second day in a row and as I let my mind wander, there it was – fortitude. Wow, I mulled it over. Said it out loud and knew it was the word I had been searching for.

    FORTITUDE – courage in adversity. Isn’t this exactly what we all have been doing since COVID came to visit and did not leave just like an unwanted house guest. We all discovered that we have the strength of mind to endure a 2-week shelter in place that has turned into a year plus. We have discovered we have gumption, spunk, moxie and determination. We can and are surviving.

    And as I traveled down 2020, I struggled just as many businesses did on whether SeniorCenterCt.org would survive or was it time to shut the doors and close down Jencks Network, LLC. There were no new sales happening and little money coming in. But the bills continued arriving. The question became “Is today the time to file for bankruptcy?”

    But I also knew I have a product that is stunning and needed by so many.  Also, that as we come out of COVID I know other businesses are going to be looking for “new” ways to advertise.  That post COVID we all will be in a “new world” and SeniorCenterCt.org is in the best position ever to thrive and grow into the business I have always know it will be.

    So, I reached out for grants, PPP, EIDL and anything else that might give me the money I needed to survive. And as I said “FORTITUDE” on the beach, I knew that is exactly what I have been doing. What I will continue to do as SeniorCenterCt.org grows in 2021. A new Senior Center is being added. A different calendar platform will be used. Other changes are in the works. I know that FORTITUDE is the strength and strong will that carries me patiently forward with firm courage.

    This word – FORTITUDE —   reflects back at me as I read my 2021 Vision Board. It says – I will experience everyday humility, curiosity, courage and confidence. I will always ask “Why?” I will look for and see the clues.

    Because I have the ability to carry on, because I and all of us who have survived COVID we all have  FORTITUDE!

    And yes, you have been traveling this same journey even if your path looks a little different, we all have had the strength to bear through a pandemic and have the ability to carry on!! We have guts, grit, backbone and FORTITUDE!!

    Craft Kits- Painted Kindness Rocks

    Posted on March 8, 2021 by Lyme / Old Lyme

    Have you ever stumbled upon a colorful, hand-painted rock that has been painted in bright colors or has an uplifting message written on it? You may have just found a kindness rock! Rock painting or rock art is a trend that has picked up popularity in recent years. Whether you’re an artist who is looking for a new art project or
    someone who wants to share a positive message with others, painting rocks might be for you.~This painted rock, sometimes called a kindness stone, is simply a rock that someone has decorated with an inspirational message. They can be any size or shape, as big or small as you like! The point of this stone painting is to sprinkle positivity around your community. Once you create one, the idea is to leave it somewhere for another person to find and enjoy. As we all know, sometimes a simple message of love and compassion can spark joy and brighten someone’s entire day.~If you would like to paint some rocks with us, we will be handing out craft kit materials, including rocks, on Wednesday, April 7th between 11-2pm for all that register. Limited to 30 kits, please call (860)434-4127 to register. Free of charge and open to all members.