As some folks mature, they begin to look at life as a series of sunsets. However, those who finish well tend to look instead at life as a series of sunrises. Clair Morey looks at every day as a sunrise – not a sunset.
Clair spent most of his life as a bus driver. First, as a school bus driver, and then 35 years as a tour bus driver for the Mount Lassen Motor Transit. He loved it! He would do the driving, and his wife, Bernice would go along as the Hostess. They went everywhere: National Parks, attractions, wonders and world fairs.
Then one day it happened.
After his 80th birthday, he received word that he could no longer drive. Insurance would no longer cover him. This sadness was added to the grief from losing the love of his life. His lovely Bernice had passed away.
At that point, the future for him is bleak – there is nothing left for him but a series of sunsets.
But Clair is not done yet. So instead of ending the race, he makes a decision that he’s going to create his own rules and continue on in the busing industry. After some time off, he is now working both in the office and the open road. In the winter, he plans and packages tours. In the summer, he reaps the rewards of those tours by working as the Host.
He also offers mentorship and advice to the new drivers…his knowledge base is significant. Everyone benefits, everyone wins. Lightning struck twice when he found a new love of his life and got remarried. Her name is Janice, she is an avid tour bus rider – they actually met on the bus.
I got the chance to visit with Clair on a bus tour to the Lewiston Peddler’s Fair. I was amazed to learn about all the different places he has been, such as Reno, The Rose Parade, and Branson, Missouri. He said that Branson was the longest trip. It was 25 days long and lots of fun. He told me that he really enjoyed the longer trips because you really get to know the passengers better- that they become like a family. He said that they have many long-term friendships with folks who have taken bus tours over the years.
At 87 he is still going strong, still going down the road, still providing insight and humor on the trips. Only now he’s doing it from the passenger seat. He’s a very vital part of the busing industry and to this date has not considered retirement.
Don’t let life dictate to you how you run the race. Finish well.
Has your world been touched by dementia? My recent book, “Finishing Well: Finding Joy in the Journey”, is a collection of stories and 
tips about doing life with my Mama. May it encourage and inspire you to find the joy in your own, unique journey.
Find our group on Facebook