By Garrett Lee

When I first arrived as the new CEO at Trinity Woods, one of the first things I was exposed to in my onboarding was the Culture of Courtesy Guidelines. In reading through these guidelines and learning about the history and their implementation, my decision to come here was once again confirmed.

In my experience with being a part of a senior living community, I have found courtesy is the single most effective expression of extending grace to one another. That is what makes the difference.

Over time, courtesy has been defined in various ways, but at its core, it refers to polite behavior that reflects respect and consideration for others. The term has roots in medieval chivalry, where it initially referred to the manners expected in a royal court or among the nobility. Its meaning has broadened to encompass general good manners in social interactions that still stand to this day.

I believe the courtesy that is woven into the Trinity Woods resident and employee culture is important and is what makes us special or as we like to say “neighborly”. For our community to thrive and continue to be home to everyone who lives here, courtesy must be organic to our communication with each other and to our way of life. I am committed to prioritizing a culture of courtesy, always, as a core personal practice and as a core belief of Trinity Woods.

I leave you with these influential words from the great Maya Angelou “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel”.

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

…But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, Philippians 3:13b

In the tapestry of life, we often find ourselves clinging to threads that no longer serve us—threads woven from memories, expectations, low self-confidence and fears. But what if we could unravel those threads, allowing space for growth, renewal, and freedom? That’s precisely what the power of letting go offers us.

The Bible teaches us that surrendering control is not a sign of weakness but rather an act of strength and faith. It requires us to relinquish our own desires and ambitions and trust that God’s plans are far greater than our own. Use the example of Jesus, who surrendered His heavenly rights to redeem humanity—a powerful act of letting go.

In Philippians 4:6-7, we are urged not to be anxious about anything but instead to present our requests to God through prayer, with thanksgiving. This passage reminds us that letting go of fear and anxiety involves trusting God with our concerns. When we surrender our worries and fears to Him, we find peace that surpasses understanding. It’s an invitation to release the burdens we carry and embrace God’s peace.

Ephesians 4:31-32 instructs us to let go of anger, bitterness, and resentment. Instead, we are to show kindness, compassion, and forgiveness to others. Through forgiveness, we experience healing and find freedom from emotional burdens. Jesus modeled this when He forgave those who crucified Him, demonstrating the power of letting go and embracing grace.

The power of letting go lies not in our own strength but in our willingness to yield to God’s wisdom and grace. It allows us to participate in God’s redemptive work, unshackling us from self-centeredness and opening our hearts to love, service, and transformation. As we release our grip on the past, fears, hurts,
low self-esteem and unfulfilled dreams, we make space for God’s healing touch.

So, as we enter the last quarter of 2024, consider what you need to let go of today—whether it’s control, bitterness, self-doubt or worry—and trust that God’s love will carry you forward.

Remember, what the Apostle Paul says in Philippians 3:13b.

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
Ephesians 2:10 NLT

We all know what a masterpiece is. It’s a creator’s prized piece, his or her most valuable work. Artists are blessed if they have a single masterpiece. Few throughout history are fortunate enough to have had more. Beethoven is one of them. So are Vincent van Gogh and Michelangelo.

No artist, of course, compares to God. Imagine the most beautiful sights you’ve ever seen in creation. Maybe the snowcapped mountains, the northern lights, a field of brilliantly colored wildflowers or waves crashing into a towering cliff. Out of nothing, God brought forth these masterpieces. He saw them for what they were long before anyone else could – that’s how God sees you.

Today you may be surrounded by obstacles, and your greatest features might be hidden under layers of insecurity, fear, struggle or shame. Even as you read this, God is working to remove those layers. Just know that there is a masterpiece in you that you don’t have to prove, you just have to reveal. When
you do, the right people will recognize the masterpiece you are.

God chose you and molded you. Then He set you apart for His great purpose. The thing about a masterpiece is that it’s made to stand out. As many masterpieces as Beethoven, van Gogh and Michelangelo created, not one was the same. They each were wildly unique and were crafted to express a unique part of their creator’s heart. As are you!

You are no mistake, nor the product of some random chance. You are the outcome of God’s choosing, the result of His steady hand. Yes, you belong as you are with all your quirks and qualities, because with them, not despite them, you reflect something about God that the world needs to see. So, do not be afraid to stand out because that is what masterpieces do – “stand out.”

“You Are God’s Masterpiece!”
Partially adapted from kylewinklerministries.org.

By Weldon Tisdale, Interim Director of Wellness

Many people think about “wellness” in terms of physical health only. The word invokes thoughts of nutrition, exercise, weight management, blood pressure, etc. Wellness, however, is much more
than physical health. Wellness is a full integration of not just physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing
but so much more. It is a complex interaction that leads to an enhanced quality of life when fully embraced.

Trinity Woods has adapted the seven dimensions of wellness model: Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, Social, Environmental and Vocational. Each dimension contributes to our own sense of wellness or quality of life, and each affects the others. Here’s an overview of each of the seven dimensions.

Spiritual Wellness: Encompasses exploring one’s sense of purpose, meaning, and connection to someone larger than oneself. Living with meaning and purpose in life, guided by personal values, is key to feelings of well-being and connection to the larger world. Group and individual faith-based activities,
Bible study, prayer, journaling and meditation create the opportunity for spiritual growth.

Physical Wellness: Centers around maintaining a healthy body through regular exercise, proper nutrition, managing stress, getting adequate sleep, regular check-ups and following medical recommendations. These lifestyle choices help maintain or improve health and functional ability.

Intellectual Wellness: Involves engaging in lifelong learning, mental stimulation, and challenging oneself to stay mentally active. Engaging in creative pursuits and intellectually stimulating activities is a proven approach to keeping minds alert and interested.

Emotional Wellness: Focused on managing emotions, developing coping skills, and fostering a positive mental state through peer counseling, stress management, humor/laughter and personal histories. Coping with challenges and behaving in trustworthy and respectful ways signal emotional wellness.

Social Wellness: Involves nurturing relationships, building social connections, and contributing to the community. Social interactions with family, friends, neighbors and chosen peer groups can be valuable for maintaining health.

Environmental Wellness: Incorporates being mindful of one’s impact on the natural world, conserving resources, recycling and promoting sustainability. Good environmental stewardship means respecting, protecting and caring for our God-given resources.

Vocational Wellness: Focuses on finding purpose and fulfillment in one’s work, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and developing a sense of accomplishment. Leisure-time vocations in the arts and through hobbies as well as mentoring and volunteering help maintain vocational skills.

Embracing wellness means shifting your mindset to prevention and employing proactive strategies to thrive, rather than just survive. Wellness is a conscious and self-directed process with the goal of achieving your full potential. The Trinity Woods community desires to see all reach their full potential by embracing the seven dimensions of wellness. This will help drive Trinity Woods towards achieving its vision of “redefining aging.” For more information on ways you can get more involved in wellness programming reach out to any member of the Trinity Woods Wellness team.

By Alison McMillian, Wellness Manager

As we enter the final quarter of 2024, sometimes we are feeling the need for a refresh, rejuvenation, or a renewal. After all, September is a time of transition from Summer to Fall, and it also kicks off Healthy Aging Month.

Healthy Aging Month, recognized officially by the Senate in 2021, sprouted from the Healthy Aging Organization’s National Healthy Aging Campaign started in 1992 by the President of Healthy Aging.
This campaign is intended to focus on positive aspects of growing older to draw attention to healthy active lifestyles at any age. It also has been helping to chip away myths of aging.

According to a Harris Poll of over 900 adults over the age of 50, there has been a dramatic shift in the way that aging is defined and perceived, with almost 80% of those adults reporting being more active and almost 60% of them reporting being more open minded and curious about aging. The poll reports more modern older adults feeling happier, freer, and less anxiety ridden than before.

As they say at the Healthy Aging Organization, it’s never too late to take charge of your wellness! So take time this month to prioritize your wellness and refresh yourself going into Fall. Here’s some tips
from the Healthy Aging Organization to get you started:

Move more, sit less! It’s recommended to get about 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity per week. That’s only 20 minutes a day!

Watch your salt intake and eat more fiber. Adding fiber into the diet will help maintain good digestive health. Things like whole grains, broccoli, legumes, nuts, and more.

Be proactive with your social life. Set up lunch dates, outings, or meet-ups with new and old friends to combat loneliness.

Plan for your Next. Take up a new hobby, plan travels, forge new goals to accomplish.

Trinity Woods is celebrating Healthy Aging Month with Active Aging Week at the end of the month. Be on the lookout for fun activities, challenges, tips and tricks, and more from the Wellness Team.

By Garrett Lee, Trinity Woods CEO

I am pleased to welcome Emilie Creswell to Trinity Woods as the new Vice President of Health Services. I have had the pleasure of knowing Emilie for several years and have been impacted by her passion for serving older adults, their families as well as the employees who care for them. Emilie comes to Trinity Woods with a wealth of experience in aging services. She has been a licensed long-term care Administrator for over 26 years!

“I am excited to develop meaningful relationships with and serve alongside the remarkable team at Trinity Woods as we continuously improve both personalized quality of care and the employee experience,” said Emilie.

Emilie is a highly knowledgeable senior living professional. Her balance of operational insight and relational style is a perfect fit for advancing and sustaining our health services.

When asked about what she wants people to know about her first and foremost, Emilie says “I am honored and blessed to be a part of an organization whose mission is to serve others in the spirit of Christ. I believe the secret to a meaningful and fulfilled life is simple: love God and love people.”

Emilie began her new role at Trinity Woods on August 28th. She is looking forward to getting to know the residents and their families and the Trinity Woods team. She will office in the health services administration hallway just across from the Therapy gym. Please stop by and introduce yourself in the coming days and weeks.

Thank you all for your prayerful involvement as we searched this summer for the new VP of Health Services. The future continues to be bright for Trinity Woods!

By Bonnie Polak, VP of Philanthropy and Community Engagement

This month, I took time to sit down with someone who needs no introduction to most people in the Trinity
Woods community – Philelle McBrayer. Philelle holds the honor and distinction of being the person who has lived here the longest – 29 years! In fact, the home she currently resides in is the place she has lived in the longest throughout her life.

Philelle’s ties to Trinity Woods, and Oklahoma Methodist Manor, are strong. Her parents built a villa on Sandusky back in 1979 that is still in use. She remembers them moving in on her birthday.

When asked about all the changes since then she will tell you, that the feeling of community has never changed. “The people are great and it is has been a wonderful place to live then and now.”

She remembers every time there has been a new building project on campus wondering how it would change things, and appreciating how it has always added something that was needed and important, making things better.

This year Philelle will turn 99 and she credits her long life to being blessed with good health. She has helped that along by being active – she walks and exercises, she still teaches piano, and is active in campus programs, as well as in her church community.

Looking back at her 29 years in the community, Philelle mentions her love of playing the piano with her most beloved friend Ann Dorff. Most people probably don’t know that this community is what brought this dynamic piano duo together. They have played over 25 programs together throughout the years.

Perhaps my favorite part about my time with Philelle was her words of wisdom…“Be active and accumulate friends.” And to that I say, well done, Philelle!

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and
you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:28–30 MSG

Do you feel as though you are trapped on a never-ending treadmill based on your own efforts to try to earn God’s forgiveness, approval and acceptance? If you are trying to earn your own forgiveness and thinking that God is constantly mad at you, I am here to tell you that is not the heart of God.

When Jesus spoke of “the unforced rhythms of grace,” He means that there is an ease and enjoyment when you walk in His grace. This contrasts with the struggle and strain found in self-effort. There is rest when you know there is nothing you can do to earn His forgiveness. It is freely given. Receive His forgiveness and stop punishing yourself, because your sins have already been punished on the body of another—His name is Jesus. No wonder the Gospel is called the Good News.

When you understand God’s grace and forgiveness, you will understand the difference between religious obligation and relationship. Under the old covenant of the law, right-living is done out of religious obligation. Under the new covenant of grace, everything we do today is birthed out of an inward
motivation that flows directly from a love relationship with Jesus.

God is not a legalist. He doesn’t want you to read His Word just because He said so, as a religious obligation. He wants you to experience His love and spend time in His Word because you want to enjoy His sweet presence. The reality is, when you don’t read the Bible, you should not feel guilty; you should feel hungry.

Jesus invites you to walk, work and watch in rhythmic timing as He does, and experience “the unforced rhythms of grace.” Keep company and in sync with Him and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly!

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

The Christian year includes two central cycles focused on major events in the life of Christ: the Christmas cycle (Advent-Christmas-Epiphany) and the Easter cycle (Lent-Easter-Pentecost).

Each of these seasons begins with a time of preparation and anticipation followed by a time of celebration. A season designated as “Ordinary Time” follows each cycle. The word “ordinary” here does not mean “routine” or “not special.” Instead, it refers to the “ordinal numbers” (first, second, third,
etc.) used to name and count the Sundays (such as the third Sunday after Epiphany).

The first period of Ordinary Time, the Season after Epiphany, begins on Epiphany Day and ends on the day before Ash Wednesday (the beginning of Lent). The central theme of this season is the calling of disciples and the early ministry of Jesus.

The second period of Ordinary Time, the Season after Pentecost, follows the Easter cycle. It begins the day after Pentecost and continues to Advent. The purpose of this season is to support new disciples and the whole congregation in living out the gifts and callings discerned during the Easter Season and commissioned on the Day of Pentecost.

Every year, Christians experience the contrast between the central seasons of Christmas and Easter, where we see God in the events around the coming of Christ, and the in-between times, where we see, speak about and join God’s ongoing work in the world.

It is our human tendency to get excited about Christmas and Easter and for our attention and enthusiasm to wane in between. Yet, we should not confuse “ordinary” with “commonplace.” One writer, Bo McAllister tells us that “Ordinary Time is extraordinary because it reminds us that God is with us even in the day-to-day ordinariness of our lives. God wants to be in our everyday lives, even the parts we view as ordinary and mundane.”

We thus experience two regular cycles of preparation, celebration and action in ministry each year, with the Ordinary Times as the primary periods of action. Ordinary Times should be a call to action during the in-between times. We are in an “Ordinary Times” season. What actions will you take to advance the Kingdom of God? Let us enjoy the relaxed nature of summer but let us do so in a way that also celebrates the sacredness of “Ordinary Time

By Bonnie Polak, VP of Philanthropy and Community Engagement

Trinity Woods is pleased to announce that we have started the process of gating the community. Over the past several months, informational meetings were held for residents to learn more about securing the campus by adding a gated entry system.

Gated communities are increasingly popular among seniors seeking a secure, serene, and sociable living environment. Some of the key features and benefits of a gated entry:

Enhanced Security and Privacy: By limiting access to residents and approved guests only, the gated entry system will significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized individuals entering our neighborhood.

Controlled Access: Residents will have the convenience of accessing the neighborhood seamlessly through the gated entry system, while guests will require approval from residents to enter.

Community Cohesion: The implementation of a gated entry system encourages a greater sense of community by fostering a shared commitment to safety and security among residents.

“This is a great opportunity for our community,” said Garrett Lee, Trinity Woods CEO. “I am even more excited to announce that this project has been fully funded with donations and pledges. It speaks volumes that we have such support for this project and how it will add to the community.”

We thank the people who supported this effort with their prayers and contributions. The project is already under way, and we expect to break ground in the coming months. The estimated completion date of the project is the end of the year, weather permitting.

It’s a difficult conversation to have. While no one knows when that time will be, as we grow older, the question comes with more urgency. Making your wishes known is crucial for several reasons, as it helps ensure that your preferences and values are respected, particularly in situations where you might not be
able to communicate them yourself. Here are some key points highlighting the importance of this practice:

1. Personal Autonomy: Clearly articulating your wishes helps maintain your autonomy by ensuring your decisions are honored.

2. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your desires will be respected can provide significant peace of mind. This applies to both you and your loved ones.

3. Avoiding Conflicts: When your wishes are explicitly known, it reduces the potential for conflicts among family members and friends.

4. Legal Considerations: Specifying your wishes in legally binding documents like living wills, advance directives, or powers of attorney ensures that your instructions are followed in accordance with the law.

5. End-of-Life Decisions: Making your end-of-life preferences known is particularly important to ensure that your dignity is maintained, and your end-of-life care aligns with your values.

6. Financial Management: By making your financial wishes known, you can ensure that your assets are managed and distributed according to your desires.

7. Organ Donation and Funeral Preferences: Indicating your preferences for organ donation and funeral arrangements can relieve your family of making difficult decisions during a time of grief and ensure your wishes are honored.

8. Communicating Values and Legacy: Beyond practical considerations, making your wishes known allows you to communicate your values, beliefs, and legacy. This can provide guidance and inspiration to your loved ones and ensure your personal and family values are upheld.