The buddleia in our garden is bright purple at the minute, but it will fade soon. Maybe there is someone in your life who is not the vibrant person they once were. Watching President Biden struggle with his age is a case in point.

But here is a crucial thing: we have to hold onto the best of the person we see right now, not denying their struggles but treasuring the glimmers of their true self they still give to you. I love seeing the older people in my life laugh, or tell stories about themselves. So maybe they can’t do the things physically they used to do, but they are still them.

If you feel like you are fading, think about the parts that still make you shine, or let a friend show you. Maybe you or someone close to you have slowed down. Sitting down actually gives you a chance to dwell with other people and move deeper in conversation with them. When you can’t run past, asking ‘how are you?’and missing the answer, you can wait and listen properly. Some of the best conversations I have had have been the ones where I am there beside a person for the duration, like it or not!

If your struggles are swamping you, remember you are deeply loved, and your Father sees you. For those who are finding it hard to watch the people close to them getting older or sicker, gently handle your fading flowers and never forget that they deserve to be cherished.