Marta was a mature woman in her early sixties, full of life and with a special love for older people. Since she was a child, she enjoyed listening to the stories of her grandparents and elderly neighbors. Over time, this passion only grew. Now, Marta organized monthly dinners for the elderly community in Montes Claros.
It was a warm summer night when she was preparing everything for another special dinner. The table was set with white tablecloths and wildflower arrangements. On the menu, traditional Minas Gerais dishes that were always a hit: chicken with okra, tutu de feijão, and homemade doce de leite for dessert.
At seven in the evening, the guests began to arrive. Dona Iolanda, an eighty-year-old lady with a contagious smile, was one of the first to appear. Then, Seu João, a former blacksmith, with his stories of courage and determination. With each new visitor, Marta greeted them with a warm hug and a twinkle in her eye.
During dinner, the conversation flowed animatedly. Stories of past times, sincere laughter, and valuable advice filled the air. Marta, seated among her guests, listened attentively. It was there that she felt truly happy, surrounded by wisdom and life experiences.
At the end of the night, while helping to clear the plates, Marta thought about how special these gatherings were. It wasn’t just a dinner, but a moment of deep connection, where the past and present met. And she knew she would continue organizing these events because, for Marta, the elderly were an invaluable treasure.
