OOPS #18 Keep on Putting one Foot in Front of the Other
WIGO member Frances Hasler reflects on what might seem like an ordinary summer’s day: a walk on the cliffs, singing with friends, a peaceful swim, time in the garden. Yet woven through these simple moments are many of the things that help us flourish as we grow older — purpose, community, nature, friendship and hope. It’s a timely reminder that ageing well is often built not on dramatic events, but on the everyday choices that keep us connected to each other and to the lives we want to lead.
The hottest day of the year—which, living near the sea on the South Downs, meant it wasn’t quite as hot for me as for some unlucky people inland. I managed a short walk on the clifftops and even did a few qi gong exercises before it became too hot to move.
Back home, I retreated to the cool of my study (uncomfortably chilly in winter but a sanctuary today) and got stuck into some admin. I’m involved in a local political party and there was plenty to do after our AGM the previous evening. I caught up with social media (Facebook for local gossip, LinkedIn for professional gossip), then it was time for some active politics.
A contentious, divisive, right-wing GB News presenter was coming to speak locally and some of us wanted to show how we felt about that. There’s a large, loose network of people here involved in environmental activism, community building, refugee support and anti-racist work, including the fabulous Hope and Anger Community Choir. We gathered under a large sycamore tree on the road leading to the venue, holding homemade banners with messages of hope and inclusion. The very talented Wendy from the choir led us in repeated renditions of All You Need Is Love, Lean on Me and Lead with Love.
There’s something wonderful about singing in the open air with a group ranging in age from eight to eighty-something. And being alongside people I knew and people I didn’t, united by shared values about what matters in life, was deeply energising.
Then it was time to head to the seafront for a delicious early evening cool-down in the sea. Afterwards, I visited a friend who lives close to the beach. We sat in his garden drinking non-alcoholic Prosecco and putting the world to rights (as you do). Back home in my own garden, I enjoyed the evening breeze while listening to the soothing trickle of a solar-powered fountain.
All of which made it both a gloriously ordinary day and a unique one. It contained many of the ingredients we’re told support a healthier later life: being in nature, being physically and mentally active, staying connected to your community, and having a secure place to live. None of these are things I take for granted, and I’m very grateful to have them. My day is simply one example of how one older person lives: nothing remarkable, perhaps, but full of the things that give my life meaning.
The day also reminded me how working together helps us get where we want to be, at every age. The song Lead with Love (by Melanie DeMore) begins with the words, “You gotta put one foot in front of the other and lead with love”—which perfectly expresses the solidarity I’ve found at Social Care Future gatherings. It goes on to say, “Don’t give up hope, you’re not alone,” and “Lift up your eyes, the road is there.”
My favourite verse is the last:
“I know you’re scared, and I’m scared too. But here I am, right next to you.”
As I’m moving on into older life it’s good to know that you’re there too. Just keeping on putting one foot in front of the other…
If you’re not already familiar with the song, you can see and hear it here: https://www.riseupsinging.org/songs/lead-love
