Do You Want to Know Why?
I am here at Lenbrook because I believe I am supposed to be! The journey that brought me to Atlanta from the heart of the Mississippi Delta was not anticipated and came as quite a shock. The insidious disease called cancer and my physician’s admiration of an Emory cancer surgeon’s expertise sent me flying to Peachtree Street where my youngest daughter and her husband live.
They had already checked retirement homes out (thinking of their respective parents) so when the time came to decide whether I would continue to live with them or move — we visited Lenbrook.
There was no reason for me to go back home (home being Greenwood, Mississippi) and there were very good reasons to remain in Atlanta close to the medical support I will need for the rest of my life. However, even though I had my own floor in my daughter’s home with all of the amenities (including kitchen and private bath), I was uncomfortable realizing that my son-in-law (whom I look upon as a son) and daughter needed their “married life” space. After all, he hadn’t intended to marry another “Mama.”
Greenwood was my home for over 50 years and it was difficult to think I was going to have to grow accustomed to another one. The reluctance was understandable I think. I was leaving a way of life behind. I thought first of missing my small church (C.P.C.A. Presbyterian) and the activities I was so much a part of. So, my children and I visited several denominational churches in Atlanta and settled on one which met our needs. Lo and behold, several members of my Sunday School class are residents of Lenbrook! The transportation to and from is all arranged. Who could ask for anything more?
Then, having been a member of many civic clubs (and a very active member), having countless long-time friends living in a neighborhood which boasted people who really knew each other and visited and shared so much with one another, I knew that I would miss the camaraderie.
However, let me say this about Lenbrook: It has become my home away from home. I discovered I can do everything here that I did in Greenwood — all I needed to do was “reach out” and I reached! When I did, Lenbrook reached back and embraced me. I love singing, church and its activities, writing, going to entertaining meetings and activities, good food, reading (an excellent library — well run here) participating in physical activities and so on. The living accommodations are superior. Lenbrook met and has continued to meet all of my interests plus more! I am not only content, but loving every minute.
“Mid pleasures and palaces though we may roam,
When we come to Lenbrook
We have found a good home!”
Betty Jim Morgan became a resident of Lenbrook in 2015.