Smith Crossing Resident Spreads Positivity To Neighbors

ORLAND PARK, IL — After pushing to stay in the spirit during the holiday season, Judy Lewis, a Smith Crossing resident, wants to continue her efforts by encouraging residents to stay positive in 2021.

Smith Crossing is a senior living community based in Orland Park. Lewis became the director of sales for the community in 2000. Today, Lewis is now a Board of Trustees member who has been living in the community since 2019 with her husband.

Lewis held multiple holiday events in December within the community, such as making Christmas tree decorations and organizing a wreath contest for residents. Now that the holidays are over and 2021 is upon us, Lewis is dedicating her time to help neighbors stay positive throughout the era of social distancing. Reflecting on her recent experiences, Lewis wants to remind people to stay vigilant and optimistic this year.

"We can keep a positive spirit by choosing to do so," Lewis said. "I think of the spirit of Smith Crossing in terms of ‘invisible hugs.’ There is a kindness and support that is always there, even when we are separated physically."

With this in mind, Lewis has a number of tips she wants to share that may help other residents and readers stay positive during the pandemic.

Dress for the day you want to have

“Get up each day and get dressed in clothes that make you feel special,” Lewis said. She suggests that even if you aren’t going anywhere, you’ll feel better if you take care of yourself.

Make someone smile

When Lewis focused on spreading positive messages for her neighbors at Smith Crossing, she found that she experienced a boost herself. “Seeing the reaction to the
holiday decorations I arranged at Smith Crossing was very fulfilling to me,” Lewis says. “It is very special to see that kind of joy.” Even though the holidays are over, you can still find ways to spread happiness. Perhaps you could organize uplifting door decorations, deliver an unexpected gift of baked goods, or even make a funny video to share.

Keep your mind engaged

Being at home doesn’t have to be boring. Reading, puzzles, hobbies, music and art can lift your spirits and engage your brain even while social distancing is still required.

Stay connected

Even when you need to maintain social distance, you can still stay connected. Use technology like Skype or Zoom if that works for you, but old-fashioned phone calls and letters work as well.

Focus on what you can do safely

Rather than dwell on restrictions, look for ways to find joy. Decorations, favorite foods and simple pleasures are always accessible if you look for them.

Lewis’ relationship with Smith Crossing began in 2000 as the director of sales and one of the community’s first employees before the August 2003 groundbreaking for the new senior living community. Today, she serves on the board of trustees. She and her husband Harold moved into the community in 2019.

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