NEARING HOME by Billy Graham

Facing the end of his own life, Billy Graham has put together some practical advice for others as they head into their twilight years.  At ninety-three-years-old, Graham has lived a full life, and continues to think of the needs that older people face – emotional, spiritual and financial – as they age.  “I can’t truthfully say that I have liked growing older.”  Such truths are welcomed by others who are often afraid of ostracism by society when these truths are spoken.  While accepting the facts of aging, Billy Graham encourages the aging to accept the pains of aging, while continuing to praise and serve God. 

Addressing the rewards and pitfalls of retirement, loneliness, and declining health, Graham offers hope and acknowledges that there is a battle to be fought in the aging process.  He encourages one to remember the past, but, not to live in the past.  Continue to look to the future and find ways to be a blessing to others.  “One thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead” Philippians 3:13 NKJV. Graham reminds the reader that there are always things ahead to look forward to.  Even if one can “only” pray, prayer is one of the highest callings for an individual. 

The road traveled through life can be rough – filled with pot-holes, detours, and speed bumps.  In the end, everyone must face death.  The more one is prepared, the easier that will be – for the one facing death, as well as for their friends and family.  Billy Graham reminds his readers that there are things everyone can do to be ready – to face this transition – with grace and dignity.