Page 44 - Emag_FebMarch2020

Continuing The Journey For “Us Guys” In 2020

by Dave Friant

he start of a new decade underway with the
anticipated ups and downs straight ahead. While and e-mail addresses of other
Ttending to pulled muscles and “to do” lists from the regulars. Participants voluntarily
female maintainers of our existences, it’s time to consider an contribute when they can in a passed around basket for
activity that will serve to advance the cause of our overall community needs. Such charitable efforts as gift cards
well-being. for Teen Challenge residents, maintenance monies for
Enter the Retired Ole’ Men Encouraging Others (ROMEO) the Ronald McDonald House, and needed funds for other
occurring area and State of Texas emergencies are handled
group who meet one morning a week at Fort Worth’s Our by the group.
Café. Shakespearian play extras? Hardly. Simply an
assembly of seasoned oldsters coming together for breakfast, Yes. . . I’m a member of this golden-age assortment. Upon
benevolent undertakings, and conversations ranging from my initial visit five years ago, I for reasons unknown
the latest in sports happenings to remedies for “what ails found a vacant chair at Table 1 in the café’s adjoining
this country.” Between gulps of backroom. Several tables are strewn throughout the eating
coffee and spilt pancake syrup, area; from six-seaters to those
some semblance of relationship who comfortably sit only
building additionally takes four. Made clear early on was
place. the need to be generous with

State of Washington transplant waitress tipping and not bashful
with opinions regarding most
Bob Congdon is the inspiration any topic. Currently, additional
behind the weekly huddle of Table 1 cast of characters
25-30 enthusiastic widowers include a Henny Youngman-
and married inspirers who like king of the one-liners from
range in age from the mid-60’s Pennsylvania, a professional
thru somewhere in the vicinity Santa, a quiet military retiree
of 90. No one is carded for who is one of three Larry’s at
age confirmation. Friends of the table, a substitute math
regular attendees as well as teacher who enjoys “hanging
interested visitors to the eating out” on Colorado ski slopes,
establishment are welcomed. an 88-year-old gardener
Congdon pastored a church in extraordinaire, and a gentleman
his former home state and had who is continuing to grieve
originated a men’s ministry over being victimized by an
there by the same name. This particular Fort Worth band unscrupulous financial planner.
of brothers began in 2011 through a local area church. The No hierarchy exists regarding who sits where. Absent is any
Encouraging Others portion of the acronym was by design. litmus test to measure spiritual sufficiency. We’re all flawed
The “E” and the “O” stand for Eating Out in most ROMEO in a variety of ways and just looking for a “regular status”
groups. His desire has always been to set into motion the accommodation with a bunch of guys. Able to be joyfully
building of relationships. “I need fellowship with guys my checked is the FAVORABLE box when evaluating the time
own age. Older men enjoy getting together,” says Congdon. spent on those special mornings.
Jerry Damon is in the midst of his 6th year with ROMEO. Sought after in many cases for no longer employed men
“I’ve learned that men’s fellowship is a unique experience. is the comradery and friendships left behind at the job.
Tremendous outcomes are possible when connectedness Studies on aging in part refer to the need for recapturing
occurs,” says Damon. feelings of self-worth and pertinence for the folks on the
Although encouraged, no type of religious affiliation is backstretch of life. As well as “encouraging others,” we
necessary for participation. Prayer requests, a seem to “encourage ourselves” through the experiences and
short devotion, and a blessing of the food is a part of every friendly atmosphere of the group.
Wednesday morning. Several supposed masters of levity There are several ROMEO groups, or other gatherings of
share stories and quips to occupy some of the nearly two senior males, in the Metroplex. During this still early part of
hours of time together. Each have the phone numbers the new year, make a commitment to pursue avenues where
connectedness occurs. The payoffs are invaluable. •

page 42 | www.celebrationmagazine.com