theconnectionsnj.com SENIOR LIVING PAGE 34 braham Lincoln, 1809-1865 Changed our country and society Adolph Hitler, 1889-1945 Dictator orchestrated the genocide of millions Mother Theresa, 1910-1997 Saint known for missionary work While that is where their similarities ended, they are forever remembered by that dash, less by the dates preceding and succeeding it. A tiny symbol represents the days lived by a person; their accomplishments, goals, failures, dreams, nightmares, and/or reprehensible actions. Most of us have a choice-free will to act in a way that makes us feel pride, happiness, success, love. Defining ourselves is a desire, and it becomes a guideline for our actions. When I think about the importance of the dash, one specific day consumes my heart and my head. It was June 29, 1969, a hot Sunday, the day we buried my father. I was still in shock, having watched with horror as he unexpectedly died, crumbling to the bed, a big man reduced to a pile on the blanket, just the morning before. His funeral was at 11:00 a.m. that Sunday morning. Herman Aron Finkel, forty-five years old. The sign on the door to the chapel where our service was to take place specified the dates of his birth and death. There was nothing to denote the dash of his life, of course. He was a husband, a father of three daughters, a brother, cousin, uncle, and friend. My family held each other tightly. My father’s dash left us with no guidance, no direction, just days of living. The dash was not hinting at what was to come. It probably never does properly highlight the agony of such loss. Arriving early at the funeral home, I noticed the sign on the door to another service, which began at 9:00 a.m. It was for a boy named Marc. His dates said he was twenty-three years old, and his death came from a motorcycle accident. Although he was half the age of my father, his dash was the same size. What had he done in the period between his birth and death? His family’s dreams crashed with that accident, but where was that mentioned or acknowledged in the symbolic line between his birth and death? I noticed a third door, a man whose funeral was at 1:00 p.m. He was ninety years old, twice the age of my father, close to four times the age of Marc. Didn’t he deserve a longer dash line? As I grow older, I am more mindful of the enormous responsibility of the symbol, that of representing one’s life. My thoughts bring me to my own dash. How will I be remembered by my family and those for whom I have cared so much in my lifetime? I want my life to have a deeper meaning to feel honest and impactful, have gravitas and value. I want people to have learned from me, to have been seen by me, to have felt my concern and adoration for them. A lofty goal, yes, but one I absolutely and intentionally embrace! My path is about family, friends and community and making an impact that glows with tolerance and empathy for others. It feels comforting to know the road I want to have traveled by the end. Let living our best lives count all the wondrous days between the dash! SLICEOFLIFE The Dash By Ellyn Mantell I want my life to have a deeper meaning to feel honest and impactful, have gravitas and value. I want people to have learned from me, to have been seen by me, to have felt my concern and adoration for them...Let living our best lives count all the wondrous days between the dash! A s Spring approaches and the campus begins to bloom, so does an exciting new chapter at Heath Village. For more than 60 years, our community has been a place where people don’t simply live-they thrive. Surrounded by natural beauty and grounded in connection, Heath Village has long been a trusted choice for those seeking an active, engaging, maintenance-free lifestyle. This season of renewal feels like the perfect time to share what’s next: the expansion of Independent Living on our West Campus! Located just across the street from our Main Campus, this thoughtfully planned neighborhood will introduce 140 new residences, including 84 apartments and 56 villas. Designed with comfort, flexibility, and convenience in mind, these new homes reflect the quality and livability that have defined Heath Village for decades. Whether you prefer the ease of apartment living or the added privacy of a villa, each residence offers a fresh opportunity to embrace the lifestyle you love. At the heart of the West Campus will be a vibrant 24,000-square-foot clubhouse-a welcoming gathering place designed to bring neighbors together. Inside, residents will enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness studio, an art studio for creative exploration, a lively pub, a full-service restaurant, and inviting spaces for socializing, learning, and relaxation. More than a building, the clubhouse will serve as the centerpiece of an active, connected lifestyle. This expansion beautifully complements the amenities residents already enjoy. From our restaurants and pubs to the heated saltwater pool, gardens and greenhouse, and woodworking shop, opportunities for enrichment are everywhere. Outdoor favorites-including shuffleboard, pickleball, bocce, and tennis courts-encourage friendly competition while meandering walking trails offer peaceful moments among the changing seasons. Flexibility remains central to our vision. With both rental and entrance fee options available, future residents can choose the financial model that best aligns with their plans and goals. This thoughtful approach ensures that Heath Village continues to meet the evolving needs of today’s retirees. As we step into this new season, our community continues to represent growth rooted in tradition. We honor our 60-year legacy while embracing the future with intention and care. Truly the best way to experience Heath Village is to see it in action. Join us for an upcoming event to meet residents, connect with our team, and discover firsthand the energy, friendships, and opportunities that define daily life here and see the beauty of our campus. Call 908-852-4801 to register for our on-site events. • Mother’s Day Sip & Succulent Event– May 5th: Design a beautiful succulent arrangement to take home while enjoying cocktails and great company! • Campus Nature Walk Tour & Luncheon– June 16th: Join our resident hikers and tour our nature walking trails, our rustic campus, and an apartment followed by an outdoor lunch. • Garden Tour & Luncheon–July 21st: Connect with our talented resident gardeners and dedicated Grounds Team as they share the story behind our thriving community garden. Refreshments to follow. • Cocktails in the Courtyard–August 20th: Good Friends. Great Drinks. Gorgeous Courtyard. Join us for an unforgettable afternoon at Heath Village. We look forward to welcoming new neighbors, new energy, and new possibilities as our community continues to flourish today, and for many more seasons to come! COMMENDS Heath Village: In Full Bloom with New Beginnings in our Timeless Community CONNECTION 430 Schooley’s Mountain Rd. Hackettstown, NJ 908-852-4801 www.heathvillage.com As Spring approaches and the cam
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzA2NDY0