By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11).

Christmas means many things to many people according to their backgrounds, ages, and interests. For born-again believers, it means that God loved them, regarded their lost condition, and did something about it by giving the best gift ever. Our Savior was laid in a manger for His cradle (Luke 2:7). He came to experience everything man must experience, “yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15), and then die on our behalf on the cross (Hebrews 9:28). One day He will return and be crowned King of kings with every knee bowing and every tongue confessing that He is Lord (Philippians 2:9–11).

Therefore it is important for a Christian to have a right Christmas! Here are some ingredients to include in our celebration: A right Christmas includes making room for Jesus. The innkeeper reminds us of those who have no room for Him. We should be sure our hearts are not so full of other things that there is no
room for Him this Christmas. A right Christmas includes worship and the grace of giving. We should take time for special worship today, and give, as God gave His Son. We should also follow the example of the wise men who “fell down, and worshiped Him, and . . . presented unto Him gifts” (Matthew 2:11). A right Christmas includes telling others. The shepherds “made known abroad” what they had seen and heard (Luke 2:17). What an opportune time we have at Christmas to tell others its real meaning!

Were the angels mistaken when they talked about peace on earth and good will to men (Luke 2:14) since we have so much hurt today? No, the angels were not mistaken: the peace God offers is for those who will trust His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, as Savior and Lord.

I’m Dreaming of a Right Christmas

By Irene Brown, Life Enrichment Coordinator

As the Christmas lights and music start to arrive, our thoughts turn to the many happy gatherings that December brings. At Trinity Woods, the happiest gathering of all is Christmas in the Woods. This year, this annual campus-wide celebration will take place on Thursday, December 7th from 6 to 8 p.m.

Over the years this has become an honored tradition among residents, families, and employees. In addition to great food at several venues, there will be horse drawn carriages, live music, and the beautiful living nativity. Christmas in the Woods wouldn’t be complete without a candy shop and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. We are also bringing back by popular demand the huge Christmas train display. New this year will be a light tour of Owens Park!

“This event is the core of who we are as a community and brings people together in a special way,” said Steve Dickie, CEO. “Trinity Woods community members, families, friends, and employees are all encouraged to attend this event. That is sure to put us in the holiday spirit!”

Christmas in the Woods is more than just a tradition; it’s a testament to the enduring power of family, nature, and the magic of the holiday season. In a world that often rushes through festivities, this cherished tradition encourages us to slow down, connect with one another, and rediscover the simple pleasures that make Christmas truly special. So, this holiday season, consider stepping away from the noise and immersing yourself in the enchantment of Christmas in the Woods.

We ho, ho, hope you can make it! To purchase an admission wristband, visit the Crestwood Concierge or Holliman Center Receptionist –$13 members, $16 guests, and $8 children ages 3-12. Children under 3 are free. For more information call 918.346.6614.

By Bonnie Polak, VP of Philanthropy and Community Engagement

In an increasingly fast-paced and interconnected world, where differences abound and personal space is often compromised, a culture of courtesy is more essential than ever. Courtesy, defined as polite behavior and respectful manners, is the glue that holds a community together. It promotes positive interactions, fosters understanding, and ensures a harmonious coexistence among people from diverse backgrounds. This article delves into the significance of cultivating a culture of courtesy and its impact on society.

In October Trinity Woods Board members, employees and residents gathered together with facilitator Kay Collier McLaughlin to refresh and affirm the Trinity Woods Culture of Courtesy we all agree to work and live by. The day was full of open discussions on how best to be a good neighbor and support a healthy community. Participants walked away with a better understanding of how to disagree with someone respectfully by engaging in a discussion instead of a debate and listening to others point of view.
“The most important legacy that I will leave behind at Trinity Woods is a strong organizational culture,” said Steve Dickie, CEO. “We understand that everyone has different backgrounds and experiences, and it is important to respect that. I want to personally thank everyone who committed the time to complete this important work.”

An important take away along with the eight behaviors of a healthy culture was the addition of Galatians 5:22-23: “…the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” Encouraging each other to reflect these attitudes and attributes was a consensus for everyone. These changes were reaffirmed by the Member Council and Board of Directors.

The Culture of Courtesy is not a mere nicety but a fundamental building block of a thriving community. It is the foundation upon which respect, empathy, trust, and social harmony are constructed. We know this is a collective responsibility to foster these values and ensure that they remain a driving force in our interactions with each other. In a world that is constantly evolving, the culture of courtesy is a timeless and invaluable treasure that we must cherish and preserve.

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

A hot, glistening bird commands the laden table, as grandma calls everyone to dinner. Eight-year-old Jennifer proudly lugs her July-born sister to the table. Grandpa and dad get up slowly with a long backward glance to see the tight end catch a pass and be forced out of bounds at the twenty-yard line. The game continues in the background without them.

“Who’ll say grace?” grandma asks. Grown-ups look awkwardly at each other in strained silence. Finally, Uncle John snickers and parrots the word “grace,” and laughter spills over the tension. Grandma steps in. “Jennifer, why don’t you say the prayer you learned in Sunday School when you were in kindergarten.” She recites. The feast begins.

Embarrassed silence replaces thanksgiving, gluttony displaces gratefulness. Thanksgiving–an expression of gratitude to God for benefits received – is too often absent from our hollow holiday.
There is, however, an ancient custom which can reclaim the day.

We read, Jesus “took the seven loaves and the fish, and when He had given thanks, He broke them and gave them to the disciples.” (Matthew 15:36) At the Last Supper Jesus took bread and gave thanks, lifted the cup, gave thanks and offered it to His followers. (Mark 14: 22-25) Jesus always prayed before meals.

We can, too. A simple prayer of thanks at each family meal of the year will gradually restore thankfulness to us. As our children and families see us humble ourselves to thank our Creator, they too learn to be grateful. Robert Lintner said it well: “Thanksgiving was never meant to be shut up in a single day.”

This habit of family thankfulness can begin around our tables now–the first of many prayers of thanks to
be offered. Now, “Who’ll Say Grace?”

Adapted from www.joyfulheart.com

By Lupina Fry, Wellness Nurse

There were multiple things we learned going through the early stages of the Covid pandemic. You can have too much toilet paper if others need it too. You can’t trust everything you hear, turn to reliable and trusted sources for guidance. Staying active and socially connected is important for mental health and
wellbeing. Vaccines are important, but not the only defense. Practices such as masking, frequent and thorough hand washing and staying home when sick all worked to limit illness throughout the pandemic. And it not only limited the spread of Covid, but it also limited cold and flu transmissions as well.

Though we know Covid is spread by tiny aerosol particles as we talk, cough, or sneeze, science is still unsure how often it spreads through this airborne route. It’s also spread through surface transmission, from person to person by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching eyes, nose, and mouth. Studies also suggest virus particles found in feces may also spread the virus. People could infect things or other people if they don’t wash their hands properly after using the bathroom. Perhaps one of the most puzzling things we’ve learned is that Covid affects people differently. Even when fully vaccinated, one person may have a few days of mild cold-like symptoms, but it can be a life-threatening situation for another.

Staying vigilant of the possibility of contracting any virus- cold, flu, RSV or Covid- from surfaces we touch makes sense. A good handwashing means 20 seconds of scrubbing all surfaces of both hands, top and palms, with warm soapy water, rinsing well, grabbing a paper towel, and drying your hands thoroughly then using that towel to turn off the water and if in the bathroom, to open the bathroom door. Carrying hand sanitizer when you’re out and about and especially keeping your hands and fingers out of mouth, nose, and eyes are important. If you’re traveling, in crowded areas or with strangers, wear a mask, and if you are feeling unwell, stay home. If you’re unsure if you have Covid perform a self-test and contact your primary care physician for support.

Covid isn’t going anywhere. Heeding lessons learned is our best line of defense for the continued health and safety of ourselves and our family, friends, and neighbors.

Don Hertzler, Resident and Tulsa Master Gardener

As we navigate, what seems like, the never-ending allergy season we thought it might be helpful to take a look at what external plants might be causing more issues than normal. Plant and trees that cause
us to sneeze can be divided into two categories: wind pollinated or insect pollinated.

Insect pollinated plants are not a source of hay fever allergies. You can tell that a plant is insect pollinated if it has an attractive flower. Flowers that attract insects are attractive to humans. So if a plant or tree has pretty flowers, it does not cause you to have allergies. Common plants with attractive flowers would include garden and native flowers as well as some trees – including magnolia, dogwood, redbud, and fruit trees.

Trees and other plants that don’t have attractive flowers are wind pollinated. They have pollen that is so small and dry that the pollen particles float in the air. Grasses, weeds, and many trees including
maple, oak, and all conifers are wind pollinated. It is their pollen that causes you to sneeze.

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

The hymn writer Anne Cousin wrote, “Jehovah lifted up His rod; O Christ, it fell on Thee! Thou wast sore stricken of Thy God; There’s not one stroke for me. Thy tears, Thy blood, beneath it flowed; Thy bruising healeth me.”

Why did Jehovah lift his rod and strike Christ? It was because Christ was our substitute on the cross. This is the heart of the cross. 1 Peter 3:18 says, “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous”. Christ suffered for the unrighteous. This means that the punishment He received was
the penalty the unrighteous deserved. In 2 Corinthians 5:21, Paul writes, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” This verse is a powerful statement about the sacrificial work of Christ on the cross and the imputed righteousness that believers receive as a result of their faith in Jesus.

As our willing substitute, He became guilty for all of our sins. As a mass of concentrated sin, the justice and holiness of God was unleashed on him. Every drop from the cup of God’s wrath was poured out until he cried, “It is finished!” In this, every drop of blood man shed that cried out for justice was told, “Be silent,
it is finished!” In this word, the Jews that carried their lambs and goats to slaughter for atonement are told, “Be done, it is finished!” In this the broken law that held curses over our heads is told, “No condemnation in Christ, it is finished!” Speak to your own conscience, saying, “It is finished! Your sins are forgiven” As the hymn writer said, “There’s not one stroke for me!” Do you believe that?

Yet there is even more in this great exchange that took place on the cross. Our sins were counted to Christ so that Christ’s righteousness would be counted to us. Not only are the sins of Christians forgiven by Christ’s death, but the perfect life of Christ is counted to them. Our position before God is righteous
in Christ. Is there any better news than that? No wonder we call it “The Gospel.”

Adapted from www.churchletters.org

By Bonnie Polak, VP of Philanthropy and Community Engagement

One of the most important functions of a board of directors is hiring and evaluating the performance of the CEO. This critical task has significant impact on the direction of the organization.

The Trinity Woods Board began planning for this transition over a year ago, when the current CEO Steve Dickie announced his desire to retire from Trinity Woods after 20 years of service. Knowing that the CEO is the driving force behind setting vision, guiding strategy, and ensuring long-term success, Task Force members know they have an important job ahead of them.

The search for a new CEO requires careful consideration and methodical focus. “Before embarking on the search, the Board and stakeholders took time to define the key attributes required for the CEO,” said Curtis Craig, Trinity Woods Board President. “Clarifying the desired leadership qualities, experience, industry expertise, and cultural fit helped us establish a clear framework for the search process.” Curtis Craig is former Chief Legal Counsel for Explorer Pipeline, whose experience makes him uniquely quailed for his role.

“The search for a new CEO is a critical and complex undertaking,” said Jim Taylor, Trinity Woods
Board Member and Chair of the Succession Planning Task Force. “The team who has been identified to do this knows the importance of their work. I am confident we will find the right leader that will provide Trinity Woods a clear vision, guide decision-making, inspire us, and build on our strong reputation.” Prior to retirement Jim was a CPA who co-founded the regional accounting firm.

To date there has been a strong response to the job listing, each candidate will be carefully evaluated by the Task Force. Between now and the end of the year the field will be narrowed to a few final candidates. The final selection will align with the leadership requirements and the vision of Trinity Woods.

Early next year, when the new CEO is chosen, the onboarding process will begin to ensure a seamless transition. Anyone interested in applying is encouraged visit the Trinity Woods website.

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

Life is not predictable. There are ups and downs along the way. Many of us want to trust God. When times are good, it can feel easier. But when times feel difficult and uncertain, it is even more important to trust God. God’s unchanging character can give us a fi rm foundation when things feel unsteady. King
Solomon instructs us to:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart….” (Proverbs 3:5a)

The word “trust” here “expresses that sense of well-being and security which results from having something or someone in whom to place confidence.” The object of that trust is Yahweh. The extent of that trust is “with all your heart.”

The next line is similar but looks at it from the negative — what not to do. It gives us a powerful mental picture.

“Lean not on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5b)

The verb “lean” has the idea of putting your weight on something, trusting that it will not give way. We are to trust in God, but not put our weight on our own limited understanding, insight, or discernment. It is so easy for us to miss a key piece of the puzzle and thus completely misunderstand or misconstrue a situation. We seek wisdom! We desire discernment! But we must realize that our understanding is imperfect and limited.

“Do not be wise in your own eyes.” (Proverbs 3:7a)

Does anything more need to be said?

“In all your ways acknowledge him….” (Proverbs 3:6a)

In English, “acknowledge” means “to recognize the rights, authority, or status of,” which, in practice, often amounts to giving a nod in God’s direction and hoping for his approval. But the word in Hebrew is much, much broader and richer than “acknowledge.” Yāda, “to know,” can describe God’s knowledge of man, a person’s knowledge, one’s skill in hunting, one’s ability to distinguish between, etc. But it can also express acquaintance with a person, describe the most intimate acquaintance, even a sexual relation, and finally one’s relation to God.

A casual acknowledgement of God can mask an arrogance that doesn’t really desire to know. We can develop a practiced deafness towards God when we only want him to rubberstamp our own plans with the word “Approved.” But when we seek to know God and listen for his voice, there is a humility,
an openness. That very humility allows us to listen to him and discern his way.

One thing for certain is that we can “trust God with everything.”

By Lupina Fry, Wellness Nurse

When someone takes the time to learn more about what it’s like for a person living with dementia, we move closer to answering the question of “what is a dementia-friendly community.”

People living with dementia often experience their surroundings as disorienting, confusing, and sometimes worst of all, as dangerous. “Where was I going, What did I need, Who was I meeting?” Questions like these can be disconcerting but imagine that nothing you see around you seems to help; people seem irritated or unapproachable; you feel uncomfortable asking for help, and nothing indicates where you are though you’re certain you’ve been there before.

Dementia Friendly America encourages communities to foster the ability of people living with dementia to remain in community and engage and thrive in day-to-day living -basically meeting a person’s needs while maintaining quality of life and dignity.

Now imagine, as someone living with dementia, encountering a friendly face, easy-to-read directional signage, and a clock telling the time and date. Imagine cheerful sounds, and a comfortable place to sit while waiting for the memories to return or a friend to appear. That scenario would certainly provide ease and comfort.

Imagine a neighbor who offers help with compassion and acceptance, brushing aside the temptation to judge and offering a helpful hand in the spirit of Christ. Neighbors who are understanding and accepting of people living with dementia, who cannot change, though most certainly they wish they could. A dementia friendly community is community – it’s neighbor helping neighbor, being aware, concerned and actively working together for the betterment of the entire community.

Trinity Woods is offering a Dementia Virtual Tour on September 26 and 27. This event will give participants a hands-on experience of what a person living with dementia may encounter. It is a
great way to learn how to help make sense of noted behaviors and actions. Call Lupina Fry, Wellness Nurse, at 918-346-6618 to reserve an appointment for this experience.

By Lupina Fry, Wellness Nurse

When the temperature reaches into the 90’s some of us head for the air conditioning indoors, while others head for the sunny outdoors! The longer days beckon us to enjoy the sunshine and the activities available to us. Whether it’s a barbecue with family and friends, or just a walk outdoors, it’s important to be careful of the greater exposure to the sun’s rays and the accompanying heat. While there might be some precautions we know by heart, there can be many misconceptions.

For instance, sunscreen is helpful but alone is not enough. Apply sunscreen to any exposed skin including, scalp, upper back and other hard to reach areas, a full ounce at least 15 minutes before heading outdoors and again every two hours. Sunscreen becomes less effective over time as well, so reapply regularly.

Don’t forget to grab a stylish pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes as well. If you like your sunglasses, you’re more likely to wear them. Blockage of 99-100% of UVA/UVB rays is standard for sunglasses made in the US today. Single gradient, shaded only on top, are great for driving; double gradient, shaded
bottom and top, are best if you’ll be involved in activities or sports.

Seek shade whenever possible, wear light colored clothing that covers any exposed skin. Consider a wide brimmed hat to protect the delicate skin on ears and neck. Dr. Vernon Sondak, Chair of the Cutaneous Oncology Program at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida has this useful phrase- “slip, slap, slop”. “Slip” on protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirt and long pants; “slap” on a brimmed hat and sunglasses; “slop” on a lot of sunscreen.

Remember to stay hydrated, as well! Start your day with a full glass of water, drinking at least two more before heading to any outdoor activity. If engaging in strenuous activity continue drinking those important fluids. Lastly, try to avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Keeping these precautions in mind will help make your summer a safe and more enjoyable one!

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to play a round of golf at Pebble Beach or St. Andrews, just like the professionals? Well, now you can at Trinity Woods’ new Indoor Golf Experience, located on campus.

“We are so excited to off er this new activity to our residents,” said Steve Dickie, Trinity Woods CEO. “Whether you are an everyday golfer, trying to fi ne-tune your swing, or just trying to do something fun with your friends, this is a great opportunity.”

The Indoor Golf Experience features golf simulator technology that is used by novice and professional golfers all over the world. Residents can play a round of golf on one of 25 golf courses, have a long drive contest, or just practice. The golf simulator can also provide immediate swing analysis data such as
angle and speed.

It doesn’t matter your level of golf experience, whether it’s beginner or experienced golfer, anyone can play. The Indoor Golf Experience is meant to bring people together for a fun opportunity.

“We hope the golfers in the community enjoy the fact that they can get in a round of golf no matter the weather outside and we hope it allows more people to try something new. Who knows, maybe there is a hidden talent on campus waiting to be discovered,” said Dickie.

Highlights:
Stunning reproductions of the world’s best courses – Enjoy the world’s most challenging and beautiful courses, all faithfully reproduced to deliver the most true-to-life golf simulation experience available.

Endless Settings Customization – From player options to weather conditions, there are nearly endless options.

Compete in Skills Challenges, Closest to the Pin, and Long Drive competitions – Power and precision become the focus in our skills challenges. Test your skills against others on a selected par 4, par 5, or the Foresight Sports range.

This new experience available at Trinity Woods would not have been possible without the generosity of Rich and Barbara Lilienthal. Be watching for more information on the Indoor Golf Experience location, times of play, and tutorial sessions.