A speech President Ma recently made at an educational center for the elderly reminded me not only of aging in general, but also of the importance of older people in our lives.

Do I worry about growing old? Sure, I worry some about it. From where I stand today, however, the wrinkles on my face and the grey in my hair seem mostly advantageous. I hope these signs of aging speak of experience, of ups as well as downs, and of a boat no longer new that is heading steadily for a harbor called wisdom.

President Ma referred primarily to help for the elderly in material ways.

But at the same time, we can also be more aware of little things we could do to show a little tenderness and appreciation for the elderly in daily life. When crossing busy intersections, do we ever take a moment to help someone older to carry a heavy bag? If you're in college and pass older professors in the hallway, do you think of their years of service and greet them with courtesy?

I have a couple of aunts who are no longer spring blossoms. I've an uncle who is 91. It is time again to pick up the telephone to let them know I'm thinking of them.