By Irene Brown, Life Enrichment Coordinator

Wow! Trinity Woods is not only a community of lifelong learners, but we are blessed with an amazing number of talented, educated, and enthusiastic lifelong teachers as well. This year will mark the seventh year of Trinity Woods Summer School and I am excited to announce that it also is the year we have more classes than ever before, all taught by our very own community members in July and August.

The Wellness Team strives to off er lifelong learning programs on a variety of different topics. We recognize that people have a natural drive to explore, learn and grow and we encourage everyone to improve their quality of life and sense of self-worth by pursuing the ideas and goals that inspire them. Kudos to those who have stepped up each year of Summer School not only to learn but also to teach such fascinating classes.

Lifelong learning is good for your brain and for your self-esteem. Trinity Woods Summer School classes promote social wellness as we learn and discuss together. There is such a wide variety of classes offered this year that I know every resident will find at least one class to be of interest. From games to wine to end-of-life planning to science to theology and even more, there is a cornucopia of learning to be enjoyed!

All the classes will be held on the Trinity Woods campus. The classes are all at different times, which makes it easy to take part in as many classes as you wish. Peruse the fascinating course offerings and see what you would like to learn more about. For a full list of the classes offered in July, please see page 4 and 5. Class will soon be in session!

By Alison McMillan

Summer is here bringing many good things like bright sunshine, warm fresh air, and the opportunity to
increase activity outdoors. Summer also brings high temperatures, high UV index ratings, and an increased risk of dehydration. Because water is crucial for bodily functions, it’s important to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of dehydration, as well as to take measures so you stay hydrated this summer.

Hydration Tips:
Drink more water throughout the day. If you struggle with the taste (or lack thereof), drop some fresh
slices of strawberries, cucumbers, or lemons in to add some flavor. Another alternative is low/no calorie
flavor additives you can find in the beverage aisle of your grocery store.

>Carry a refillable water bottle or tumbler throughout the day to help you remember to drink more, especially if you’re in a place that doesn’t have easily accessible water.
>Drink slowly. Your body doesn’t process water the way it processes food. Excessive water gets sent to the kidneys where it’s turned into urine.
>Get water with your diet by eating more water-dense foods – watermelon, cucumbers, celery, frozen fruit ice pops, lettuce, and dairy products, etc.
>Avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol. Drinks like coffee, tea, beer, wine, and spirits all have diuretic effects meaning they make you produce more urine which creates a risk of lowering your body’s water content.
>Plan to bring and drink more water if you’re getting ready for an outdoor activity, such as a sports game, a concert, a picnic, gardening, etc.
>Try low calorie electrolyte drinks. There are several on the market that help hydrate the body as well as replenish lost electrolytes. Look for the ones that have low or no sugar content!

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

There is a phrase I remember as a child that causes me to look forward to the month of May with excitement and enthusiasm. Despite the depression that looms from the hard and long winter of the past several months, the phrase “April showers bring May flowers” brings a sense of hope called springtime.

Following the commemoration of the life, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus over the Easter weekend, I kept thinking about phrases like: weeping endures for a night but joy comes in the morning; there is a silver lining beyond each dark cloud; these light afflictions are but for a moment; and this too shall pass.

The reality of Jesus’ death producing new life parallels with the thought of sunshine following a season of gloom and sadness. Perhaps you have heard this rhyme at some point, generally having been taught it at an early age by parents or teachers. It is a popular thing to say and hear around springtime.

“April showers bring May flowers” is a reminder that even the most unpleasant of things, in this case the heavy rains of April, can bring about very enjoyable things indeed – an abundance of flowers in May. This rhyme is also a lesson in patience, and one that remains valid to this day.

Many of life’s greatest things come only to those who wait, and by patiently and happily enduring the clouds and dampness of April, you can find yourself more easily able to take in the sights and smells of May. After all, it’s easier to love something if you begin with an optimistic outlook.

Bad thing happen, and sometimes a bad thing, later on down the line, turns out to not be bad at all, even though at the time you wouldn’t have know it. ~ Kenneth Arthur

Have you had a season of setbacks, disappointments, or hindrances? Do not be dismayed. Remember these things: weeping endures for a night but joy comes in the morning; there is a silver lining beyond each dark cloud; these light afflictions are but for a moment; and this too shall pass.

By Bonnie Polak, VP of Philanthropy and Community Engagement

We all have heard the story of the Good Samaritan who came to the aid of a complete stranger in a great time of need. But what you may not know is that in 1961 Dr. John Webb, the appointed director of Oklahoma Methodist Manor (as we were called at the time), spoke to the then Board of Directors about a great need for our community.

Dr. Webb told the story of residents who were living on campus, solely by the generosity of gifts from people across the state. He said we were not just called to preach the gospel of the New Testament but also called into action. That was the beginning of what we know as the Good Samaritan Fund.

Today the Good Samaritan Fund continues to be a vital part of the mission and ministry of Trinity Woods. It addresses the needs of current and future residents who outlive their resources. This benevolence bridges the gap not covered by Medicaid. Over the past 5 years we have provided $1.2 million in funds for residents at Trinity Woods.

“The Good Samaritan Fund is what allows us to fulfill our brand promise to our residents,” said Steve Dickie, CEO. “Once you move to Trinity Woods, you will be able to live out your days with peace of mind and dignity, knowing you will be cared for if you run out of money.”

A gift to the Good Samaritan Fund DOES make a difference. Remember that any gift of $300 receives a commemorative brick that will be engraved and located in front of the Community Life Center. A gift can be made as an honorarium or memorial in the name of someone who is living or no longer with us. All donations are 100% tax deductible. For more information or to make a gift, visit TrinityWoodsTulsa.com/donate.

By Irene Brown, Life Enrichment Coordinator

THANK A VOLUNTEER OR, BETTER YET, BE ONE!

The Trinity Woods neighborhood is filled with servant-hearted people! That’s what makes us a caring community. Last year we counted 160 on-campus volunteers! The list below gives you an idea of just some of the work that community member volunteers, as well as some who don’t live here, do on our campus:

• Run the Treasure Chest thrift shop
• Show movies twice a week and choose those movies
• Maintain and improve our two libraries
• Push Health Center neighbors in wheelchairs to events
• Set-up and serve meals at Supper & A Show
• Support fundraising activities – Employee Appreciation
  Fund
• Help with party decorating
• Advise the Chaplain
• Play piano at weekly Devotions and special events
• Advise the Wellness Team
• Teach Summer School classes
• Lead groups and gatherings such as Pickleball, Mah Jongg, Anna Bible Study, Ping Pong and more
• Make and deliver a bear and a prayer to everyone in the Health Center
• Serve on the Board, the Member Council and its committees
• Act as Next Door Neighbors to newcomers
• Host potential new members at events.
• 
  Many community members are also involved in volunteer work off campus, throughout greater Tulsa, in hospitals, churches, schools, and elsewhere, helping make our whole city a more caring community.
  
  Volunteering helps us age better. Research has shown that people who volunteer have higher levels of well-being and life satisfaction than people who don’t. Not only that but the older a person is, the greater the potential benefits of volunteering, making the simple act of giving back an essential part of staying healthy as we age.
  
  THANK YOU, volunteers, for all that you do for Trinity Woods and the Tulsa community!

By Lupina Fry, Wellness Nurse

As I struggle to cover this topic, a looming deadline ahead of me, I admit to feeling a little stressed. It’s normal to some degree. However, unrelenting, debilitating stress is not “normal”. Stress Awareness Month serves to remind us to be aware of health consequences so we can make good choices for ourselves and our families.

According to the National Institute of Health, although life itself can often be stressful; when you begin to experience problems with your health, you may be at higher risk for developing anxiety disorders or depression. Stress can affect your immune, digestive, or cardiovascular systems, your cognitive capabilities, and even your sleeping patterns.

Amazingly, although stress can be debilitating and can cause and/or aggravate health problems, we don’t always notice stress is happening to us. Careful attention to your body may shed light on your stress levels. Some subtle signs of stress can be frequent or recurring headaches; overeating, indigestion, or constipation; tense muscles-especially shoulders and neck; hair falling out; jaw or tooth pain; frequent colds or cold sores; confusion or forgetfulness; and sleep disturbances- either sleeping too little or
too much. Do any of these symptoms resonate with you?

If so, what can you do about the stress in your life? Begin by being honest with yourself. Then take a closer look at your environment, your to-do lists, and your commitment to others. Make yourself and your time a higher priority. Exercise can be one of the most effective de-stressors. Long walks in the fresh air
help destress and may improve some of the harsh effects stress has on the cardiovascular, digestive, and immune systems. Eat healthy regular meals, stick to a sleep routine, and avoid drinking excess soft drinks, coffee, or alcohol. Give yourself permission to say “No”. Keep a journal and write down goals along with your feelings and positive self-supportive statements. Identify and challenge negative and unhelpful thoughts and confide in friends and family who may help you cope more positively.

If you are struggling to cope and symptoms do not resolve or begin to worsen, it may be time to talk to a professional. You can find more information on the National Institute of Mental Health website at www.nimh.nih.gov/findhelp.

By Steve Dickie, CEO

In the world of senior living communities, people often ask what sets Trinity Woods apart? Most of the time I focus on the people because I know that is truly what makes Trinity Woods the community God has called us to be. One group of people that have significant impact on the Trinity Woods community is the Board of Directors.

One of the tremendous advantages of living at Trinity Woods is the benefit gained from the governance of a local Board. Everyone who serves on this Board lives right here in Tulsa and their sole purpose is dedicated to advancing the mission of Trinity Woods.

Every Board member supports Trinity Woods by giving of their time, talent and treasure:
Time: Each Board member commits to prepare for and participate in a monthly meeting.
Talent: Board members share their expertise by serving on a sub-committee: Finance and Audit, Development and Public Relations, Governance, Legal, Human Resources, and Property Trustees.
Treasure: Board members are asked to make an annual financial contribution that is significant to them. Trinity Woods relies on the generosity of faithful supporters to fulfill its mission and the Board leads the way with their financial support and by introducing the organization to new donors.

Our Board truly sets the future direction of Trinity Woods by approving and reviewing the organization’s strategic plan. They approve the annual operating and capital budgets, yearly audit, and review monthly financial performance. The support and assistance provided by this group of 24 dedicated volunteers is an essential ingredient to the success of this community.

As a professional in the nonprofit sector for my entire career, I know that a healthy working Board can make all the difference in an organization’s success. Please know the Trinity Woods Board of Directors is committed to working together to serve in the spirit of Christ and THAT is what makes all the difference.

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

Holy Week is a string of eight days that allow us an opportunity to reflect upon the shift in humanity Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross launched. It starts with Palm Sunday when Jesus enters the city of Jerusalem. The week leads us through the Last Supper, His crucifixion, and ends on Easter Sunday with His resurrection. This is the basis of Christianity. His sacrifice launched the New Covenant God promised and many had prophesied throughout the Old Testament. Each day of Holy Week allows us to peek into
the heart of our Savior at intently close proximity. His love for us is reflected in every significant step toward the cross, every breath up to the last, and His resurrection.

Though Jesus didn’t walk the earth incarnate until He was born in Bethlehem to Mary and Joseph, He exists and works throughout the entirety of the Bible. Scripture assures us that He was present at Creation with the Father, that He is the Word, and many prophecies were fulfilled explicitly during this final, holy week of Jesus’ life on earth.

During Holy Week, many biblical prophesies were fulfilled. Jesus came to earth to save humanity by dying on the cross on Good Friday and resurrecting on Easter Sunday. By enduring and defeating death sacrificially for us, He swung open the gates of heaven, allowing our sins to be forgiven and ushering us into the presence of God.

Due to the sinful nature of humanity as a result of Adam and Eve’s fall in the garden of Eden, it’s impossible for us to be “good enough” to be in the presence of God and forgiven for our sins. Jesus died to make the way for salvation. The Old Testament Law offered many sacrifices to God, but Jesus was the perfect atoning sacrifice once and for all. He endured the cross out of His great love for us.

The crucifix does not signify defeat or failure. It reveals to us the love that overcomes evil and sin. ~ Pope Francis

Holy Week is a sacred opportunity to study the foundation of Christianity. Our God is not one of coincidence. Every step toward the cross was intentional, every lesson laced with His personal
love for all of us. Let each of us demonstrate unconditional love towards one another.

Adapted from Crosswalk.com