There are gaps in our knowledge that cloud our understanding of this passage. Women of the first century, especially widows, faced many challenges that are unknown to us today. Also, by the second century, there were groups of widows who took vows to serve the church, much like nuns. Was Paul addressing such groups in the first century? We don't know. What we do know is this -- we are all called to serve, especially to serve those who have no other hope.