Walk on to Easter

Reflections by Maxie Dunnam

kids playing doctor

Three-year-old Ryan and his five-year-old sister were playing on the floor following a family dinner while the adults tried to have a conversation. Lisa opened her new toy nurse’s kit and convinced Ryan to be her patient. She took the little stethoscope and placed it on her brother’s heart, listened intently — as good nurses do. Suddenly she announced, “I hear somebody walking around in there.”

The adults smiled at this, but Ryan, matter-of-factly answered, “Why, that must be Jesus.”

That’s the amazing promise, and one of the central claims of the Christian Gospel — that Christ may live in us. Indeed that is Paul’s definition of a Christian. “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come” (II Corinthians 5:17).

In Colossians 2: 6, Paul said, “As you have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so live in Him.” The King James Version has that, “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him.” Students of Pauline thought, are agreed that the phrase “In Christ” is the central category of Paul’s thinking. This phrase, “in Christ,” or “in Christ Jesus”, is used by Paul in his letters 169 times.

What does Paul mean by this vital image “in Christ”? It means one, a new status; two, a new style, and three, a new strength.

Persons who are in Christ are people in whom a new principle of life has been implanted. They are in Christ.

I think of that in two ways. First, from the perspective of what we might call imitation, then from the perspective of immersion.

By grace we are saved through faith.”

– Kevin De Young
praying hands with bible

We are in the Lenten Season, looking forward to Easter (Mar. 3l) I urge you to join me in being more intentional in imitating Jesus, walking in his style. But more, immerse yourself in Christ: renew your commitment to spiritual discipline…scripture reading, prayer, worship, spiritual conversation with people you know who are wanting to be “more like Jesus,”

As Christians, we are, in principle new persons in Christ., As we walk as Christ would have us walk, and immerse ourselves in Christ—that is surrender ourselves to His Spirit within, His grace will make us, in fact, the new persons we already are.

-Maxie Dunnam  


Congratulations to Our Champion of the Month: Connors Moore

Connors Moore

CONNORS MOORE

Human Resources Assistant 

Describe your family: Extremely fun and the most important part of each others lives. 

Describe yourself in five words: Kind, patient, energetic, organized and helpful. 

What do you do for fun: I love watching movies. I usually watch a film a day if I can. 

Do you have any hobbies: I have a movie and record collection. Pets: 2 cats; CC and Onyx. 

What is your favorite food: Salmon. 

What is your favorite thing about your job: Meeting new people every day and bringing them to the Kirby family. 

What is Your favorite food: Chicken and Dressing. 

What is your favorite song: Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head – B.J. Thomas. 

What is something you are proud of: Graduating from Ole Miss. 

What would you like people to know about you: If you need help, I am always happy to be there. 

Connors was nominated for his exceptional dedication, his remarkable work ethic, his willingness to help others and his consistent commitment to going above and beyond. Connors truly embodies the values and spirit of Kirby Pines. 

– Trudy Schenkenberger, Director of Human Resources 


Easter Symbols and Traditions

You won’t find them in the Bible, but many cherished Easter traditions have been around for centuries. The most prominent secular symbol of the Christian holiday, the Easter bunny reportedly was introduced to America by the German immigrants who brought over their stories of an egg-laying hare. The decoration of eggs is believed to date back to at least the 13th century, while the rite of the Easter parade has even older roots. Other traditions, such as the consumption of Easter candy, are among the modern additions to the celebration of this early springtime holiday. 

Easter Bunny

The Bible makes no mention of a long-eared, short-tailed creature who delivers decorated eggs to well-behaved children on Easter Sunday; nevertheless, the Easter bunny has become a prominent symbol of Christianity’s most important holiday. The exact origins of this mythical mammal are unclear, but rabbits, known to be prolific procreators, are an ancient symbol of fertility and new life. According to some sources, the Easter bunny first arrived in America in the 1700s with German immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania and transported their tradition of an egg-laying hare called “Osterhase” or “Oschter Haws.” Their children made nests in which this creature could lay its colored eggs. Eventually, the custom spread across the U.S. and the fabled rabbit’s Easter morning deliveries expanded to include chocolate and other types of candy and gifts, while decorated baskets replaced nests. Additionally, children often left out carrots for the bunny in case he got hungry from all his hopping. 

Easter Eggs

Easter Basket

Easter is a religious holiday, but some of its customs, such as Easter eggs, are likely linked to pagan traditions. The egg, an ancient symbol of new life, has been associated with pagan festivals celebrating spring. From a Christian perspective, Easter eggs are said to represent Jesus’ emergence from the tomb and resurrection. Decorating eggs for Easter is a tradition that dates back to at least the 13th century, according to some sources. One explanation for this custom is that eggs were formerly a forbidden food during the Lenten season, so people would paint and decorate them to mark the end of the period of penance and fasting, then eat them on Easter as a celebration. 

Easter egg hunts and egg rolling are two popular egg-related traditions. In the U.S., the White House Easter Egg Roll, a race in which children push decorated, hard-boiled eggs across the White House lawn, is an annual event held the Monday after Easter. The first official White House egg roll occurred in 1878, when Rutherford B. Hayes was president. The event has no religious significance, although some people have considered egg rolling symbolic of the stone blocking Jesus’ tomb being rolled away, leading to his resurrection. 

Easter Candy

Easter is the second best-selling candy holiday in America, after Halloween. Among the most popular sweet treats associated with this day are chocolate eggs, which date back to early 19th century Europe. Eggs have long been associated with Easter as a symbol of new life and Jesus’ resurrection. Another egg-shaped candy, the jelly bean, became associated with Easter in the 1930s (although the jelly bean’s origins reportedly date all the way back to a Biblical-era concoction called a Turkish Delight). According to the National Confectioners Association, over 16 billion jelly beans are made in the U.S. each year for Easter, enough to fill a giant egg measuring 89 feet high and 60 feet wide. For the past decade, the top-selling non-chocolate Easter candy has been the marshmallow Peep, a sugary, pastel-colored confection. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-based candy manufacturer Just Born (founded by Russian immigrant Sam Born in 1923) began selling Peeps in the 1950s. The original Peeps were handmade, marshmallow-flavored yellow chicks, but other shapes and flavors were later introduced, including chocolate mousse bunnies. 

Rabbits

Resident Spotlight: Leon & Marilyn Sanderson

The Sandersons

A MISSION OF LOVE & GIVING

Love and giving go together so well. So do Marilyn and Leon Sanderson, who have plenty of love to share and express it in so many ways. Their lives have been focused on giving to others: Leon as a minister in various churches of Christ, and Marilyn as an esteemed educator of the young. Both continue to share their many talents with the residents of Kirby Pines and contribute to the sense of family we all cherish.

Marilyn Cobb was born in Springfield, Missouri. Hers was a close-knit family who enjoyed simple but significant times together. She has a sister who is older, so Marilyn was “the baby” for 11 years until a baby brother came along. According to Marilyn, “I lost my status, and our family dynamics changed.” As a member of Future Teachers of America, Marilyn would have the experience, in her senior year of high school, of spending the afternoon in an elementary school as a cadet teacher. This would provide the groundwork for Marilyn’s professional career.

In 1966, Marilyn graduated from Harding College (University) with a B.S in Elementary Education. She says her college years were very enjoyable, but most exciting was the time she spent singing with two elite groups of singers from the college. During her junior year, one group spent five weeks traveling in the Eastern part of the United States which included singing at the World’s Fair in New York. 

In 1966, Marilyn began her teaching career in Long Island, New York. It was a different culture for her, but she enjoyed the nearby cultural venues. During this time, she and a friend spent eight weeks in Europe, traveling by Eurail and staying in pensiones.

In 1969, Marilyn returned to Harding College and earned an M.A. in Teaching. She moved to Memphis to teach in the city schools and was assigned to teach fourth grade in a school with all African American students. “This was again culture shock,” admits Marilyn, “but that class became one of my all-time favorites!” However, after one year, she was persuaded to teach at Harding Academy, one of the largest private schools in Memphis. She remained there for 39 years, as classroom teacher, principal, and eventually as Director of Elementary Education for Harding Academy.

Leon Sanderson was also born in Springfield, Missouri. His only sibling was an older sister. His father and mother were involved in church work over the years. Leon’s families were musicians; his father wrote the words to several published hymns. So, music was a large part of their family. At a young age, Leon joined his father in teaching in music schools and worship leadership.

Despite occasional re-locating, Leon had a happy childhood. He recalls playing kick ball, riding his bike, playing “catch,” and making model cars. His favorite was a blue, 1904 model Oldsmobile with seats covered in burgundy velvet – a contribution from his mother. His school years were good, and he sang with all singing groups in school. He also played the tuba in the marching band during his high school years.

Having decided to become a minister of the Gospel, Leon entered Harding College in 1950 and graduated four years later with a degree in Bible and Speech. He continued his studies at Harding, earning a graduate degree in Ministry. He would then move to Memphis for his first position with a church.

Although both Marilyn and Leon were born in the same city and attended the same college, they did not meet until Leon accepted an associate minister position in the church where Marilyn attended. Together, they would become an integral part of that church’s mission to serve not only the church members, but the non-members of the community around them. 

To better prepare himself to serve, Leon became a life-long learner. Since moving to Memphis, he has earned two additional masters degrees and the Doctorate of Ministry from Harding School of Theology. He has the distinction of earning the most degrees of any student in the school’s history! He has used his musical talents in various ways, leading singing as well as teaching others to lead songs in church. He has written several hymns with special attention to setting scripture to music. Blessed with a beautiful voice, Leon sang for several years with an elite musical group in Memphis.

The Sandersons wedding
Wedding Day

The Sandersons have three children, nine grandchildren, and four great grandchildren. Twice a year, at Thanksgiving and in June, 22 family members meet for a reunion – a 25 year tradition. Travel continues to be a significant activity for the Sandersons. They have visited all 50 states; Leon has been to 33 foreign countries and six continents, and Marilyn has visited 40 countries and five continents. 

Since moving to Kirby Pines in September 2021, both Leon and Marilyn have become vital members of the Kirby family. Marilyn enjoys The Bookbaggers and Mah Jongg. Both serve as Wing Leaders, sing in the Chorus, visit residents in the hospital, and attend various Bible studies. Leon participates in Vespers, conducts sing-a-longs, and reads the Bible to residents in the health areas on a regular basis. Both are members of Germantown Church of Christ where Leon serves as a Worship Leader. 

The Sandersons say that they are very happy in this loving, family atmosphere of Kirby Pines, and getting to participate in the myriad of activities. Both admit, “We think we made a good decision to come here!

Written by Joan Dodson, Resident of Kirby Pines.


Alternatives to Pain Management

Couple taking a selfie

Technology is all around us – it’s how we get our entertainment, it’s how we communicate with family and friends, even how we exercise! As years pass, the technology gets more and more advanced – who would have even thought there would be artificial intelligence to record our grocery lists! 

So, why use technology? In today’s world, it is almost inevitable. There are many benefits to utilizing technology: 

Woman using a laptop
  • Connecting with loved ones 
  • Knowledge at your fingertips! 
  • Mental and physical stimulation – exercise and brain games apps
  • Tracking nutrition and exercise habits
  • Receive reminders for medications
  • Food and Supply deliveries 

Technology is best when it brings people together.” 

– Matt Mullenweg, CEO of WordPress
Man using a tablet

Since we all use it, it’s important to know how to keep yourself, and your personal information, safe! 

  • Use Strong Passwords – combine numbers, symbols, upper and lower case. 
  • Guard Personal Information – think before giving out your personal information online. 
  • Be Wary – If it seems too good to be true, it usually is.
  • Install Reputable Security Software – only purchase recognized security software.
  • Be Careful what you Post – avoid sharing anything too personal. 
  • Avoid Phishing Scam – a common tactic is sending emails meant to look like reputable sites – Stay Alert! 
  • Think Before You Open! Don’t open anything that seems suspicious or come from someone you don’t know.
  • Backup Photos and Documents – backup items so you don’t accidentally lose them forever. 

 There are so many different technologies out there – explore and find what fits your needs! Reach out to the therapy team at Functional Pathways to learn what options might suit you best! 


The Benefits of Walking for Seniors

couple walking outdoors

An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.” 

-Henry David Thoreau

Experts have said that walking could be the best exercise for seniors; it’s an effective way to reduce the risk for chronic conditions and improve your overall health. Some of the benefits of walking for seniors include: 

Improves heart health. 

For seniors, walking offers numerous heart health benefits. Getting your heart rate up daily leads to a reduction in the risk for high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and even coronary heart disease. 

Lowers blood sugar. 

After eating, taking a 15-minute walk has been shown to reduce the after-eating spike in blood sugar some seniors can experience. Your body is using blood sugar more effectively to strengthen muscles, and insulin works better, too. 

Reduces pain. 

Studies have shown that walking helps reduce some pain due to chronic conditions like arthritis. Some seniors experience lower back pain, and walking even just three times a week for around 20 minutes can help strengthen abdominal and back muscles to decrease chronic back pain. 

couple walking outdoors

Low participation cost. 

After you’ve invested in a good, sturdy pair of shoes, you can walk basically anywhere-for free! When the weather permits, head to Lake Latimer for a stroll on the walking paths or simply walk around the garden home neighborhood. If it’s too cold or rainy to go outside, take a stroll around the hallways right here at Kirby Pines. 

Promotes social engagement.

man drinking water

Walking offers an easy way for seniors to meet up with others, whether you join a walking group with friends or simply engage with neighbors while out on your daily walk. You can meet new people and enjoy your environment each day. 

Boosts mental health. 

A daily walk can help you feel more positive about life. The endorphins released during physical activity create a sense of well-being, reduce anxiety and boost your mood. 

It’s never too late to start! 


It’s Finally Springtime at Kirby Pines

Spring Time!! Warm Weather!! Blue Skies!!

Things are humming here at Kirby Pines inside as well as out!

Let’s start on the outside…Mike Rayder and his team has a great start on the growing season. Flower beds are clean and ready for plants and flowers. Bushes have been trimmed back and are looking healthy! We will even be adding additional color around Pond #1 to really make our front entrance pop. Kirby Pines will be participating in the Memphis Garden Tour.

Now, what about the inside…First and foremost, our Marketing Team has had a phenomenal start to 2024! Our first event of the year was a Dinner Event, targeting prospects who have expressed an interest in Kirby Pines, but have said “they aren’t ready.” The title of our presentation was “What are you waiting for?” It was a sold-out event that was punctuated by testimonies from several resident hosts. Please check our Kirby Pines YouTube Channel for the video which we used. We had an amazing response! Consequently, we have several move-ins scheduled for March! Look forward to fresh introductions as we finalize move-in dates. We will be adding many new residents during 2024.

I want to thank all who participated in our first Exquisite Cuisine of 2024! What an amazing evening had by all! We received a very favorable response from our change in 2024 of the offering of wine with the meal. You may opt out of this service if you choose. This is just the beginning of many changes in culinary, including some menu enhancements to the Bistro.

We are so lucky to have such a talented Chef as Mark Simpson and his entire staff. Next month, I will dedicate my entire article on our 5-Star Health Center. “Stay Tuned” and see you around campus. 

Michael J. Brown, Jr.
Executive Director, Kirby Pines


Being Preoccupied with Self

Reflections by Maxie Dunnam

C.S. Lewis

Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” 

– C.S. Lewis
The Secret Tape Letters book

In his classic volume, The Screwtape Letters, C.S. Lewis offers 31 imaginary letters from Screwtape, the primary personality of Hell, to his nephew Wormwood, a junior devil just starting his first assignment on earth. The purpose of the correspondence, done humorously, is to show how Hell seeks constantly to divert would-be Christians from following the ways of Heaven. 

In one note, Screwtape tells Wormwood the most productive way to overcome good people is to not only work on their pride, but infect them with a sense of false pride… 

“Catch him at the moment when he is really poor in spirit and smuggle into his mind the gratifying reflection, “By jove! I’m being humble,” and almost immediately, pride—pride at his own humility—will appear. If he awakes to the danger and tries to smother this new form of pride, make him proud of his attempt— and so on, through as many stages as you please. But don’t try this too long, for fear you awake his sense of humor and proportion in which case he will merely laugh at you and go to bed.” [1] 

We need to stay sensitive to the danger of pride. We easily fall into the pit of being preoccupied with ourselves. Jesus told a parable about this. (Jn. 18:9-14) The story is simple and straightforward. Two men went into the Temple to pray. One boasted to God of all his good qualities; the other simply asked for God’s mercy. The reason Jesus told the parable is expressed in verse 9: “He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and despised others.” 

For years I missed the connection Jesus made: how we feel about ourselves has a result on how we feel about and treat others. Get it? They were righteous and despised others.” 

Two failures are implicit here: we look at ourselves in relation to others and fail to look at ourselves in relation to God. In either case the warning is clear: don’t fall into the pit of being preoccupied with your yourself. 

-Maxie Dunnam  


Congratulations to Our Champion of the Month: Tamika Washington

TAMIKA WASHINGTON

Security Guard

Describe your family: Very close, very tight. I am an only child.

Describe yourself in five words: Dependable, generous, adaptable, considerate and passionate.

What do you do for fun: Shopping and cruising (Ships).

Do you have any hobbies: I love planting vegetables.

What is your favorite food: Loaded Baked Potato Soup. 

What is your favorite thing about your job: I enjoy helping others.

What is Your favorite food: Chicken and Dressing. 

What is your favorite song: You Know My Name by Tasha Cobbs. 

What is something you are proud of: Proud of raising three beautiful children.

What would you like people to know about you: I am still my Mama’s baby.

Tamika Washington has been a Security Guard for Kirby Pines since August 2022. She has always been a stalwart on the Security Team, but on January 2nd, while performing her duties at the Main Gate, she observed a panel truck, with three (3) individuals attempting to steal the ATM Machine at Regents Bank. Tamika called 911! MPD arrived stopping the theft and apprehended the thieves. Thank you, Tamika!!

– Michael J. Brown, Executive Director


Thank You Dennis, For All You Do!

Dennis – he’s everywhere, he’s everywhere!! Has been seen in every hallway, delivering packages, mail, and verbally sharing the daily news. Seen in the greenhouse gardens, Hobby Shop, and in the wee hours of the morning, depositing b’day cards for surprises when residents awake. THANK YOU, Dennis! You are our hero. – Mary Ann Thurmond

Dennis, Your positive attitude and willingness to help others are blessings to all of us. Thank you for being such a great example of service. – Cindy and Fred Dabrowski

Thanks Dennis for all you do at Kirby. I would see you early in the summer mornings helping Dr Parrot with the garden growers moving and delivering plants to residents. I know you helped with the mail and packages before the holidays. We appreciate you – Donna Griffin

Thank you, Dennis, for all the many steps you saved me – and always with a smile. – Kay Daniel

Thank you Dennis for the Amazon deliveries and also for your help in the hobby shop with my woodworking. – Bob Small

Dennis, you are such a wonderful member of the Kirby Pines family; thanks for all you do! Love, Keith and Judy Weathers

Dennis is a “secret” weapon of effiency of day to day Kirby Pines life. He tirelessly delivers internal mail and packages to residents at their apartments. He is friendly to all. – John and Sally Coleman

Dennis, I appreciate your willingness to help when and wherever you can and always with your wonderful smile. You’re great and truly a blessing to all your Kirby friends. – Christine Martin

To Dennis—enjoy your visits to Gift Shop & our chats. U R the Best. – Rhetta Watkins

Dennis is our Clark Kent. He is flying around making all of our lives better. He has no telephone booth but he changes our lives with his servant heart. Thank you,Superman Dennis. – Jo Ann Ginn

Thank you, Dennis, for helping all of us here at Kirby! Your willingness and happy attitude is very much appreciated! YOU MAKE KIRBY A BETTER PLACE! – Marcy and Buddy Pugh

Dennis has been extremely helpful in the Garden Gro’ers club. He is always available from pulling weeds to hauling whatever is needed (as well and many many other things. Thank you Dennis! – Dale Jones

Such a great guy! A smile for everyone and ready for a conversation with anyone! Dennis is always ready to help with anything. He is a classic! – Janice Wall

“Helping hands” are often scarce, but around here Dennis is one of them! Thank you, for your cheerful spirit and helpful attitude. You make life easier for us, and we thank you for your kindness. – Philip Slate

Dennis, thank you for all your hard work. You are truly appreciated. – Banky and Hugh Wilson

Dennis Renick exemplifies the spirit of “Service” here at Kirby Pines. He is always good-natured, energetic, and helpful – eager to serve and to please staff or other Residents. Thank you, Dennis, for your positive attitude. You are a big blessing to all of us! – Pat and Bankie McCarty

Dennis Renick, I’m so happy to be living in community with you. Your serving attitude is inspiring and challenging. I always look for the news of our community you always have and want to share. Thank you and stay happy. – Maxie Dunnam

Dennis is such a giving person and always has a smile wherever and whenever you see him. I greatly appreciate his generosity in giving of his personal time to deliver my packages. Thank you Dennis for your kindness. – Sarah McCallum

Thank you Dennis for all you do around here to make us comfortable and happy! You are truly one of a kind guy, and we all appreciate you so much! – Diane Mullins