I have tears in my eyes a little over my lunchtime pasta because I'm Jewish so I'd have known exactly what to say: thank you. So thank you for helping him, and hearing his story.
❤️ I’m still struck by his comment that there weren’t many people like him left. I think he literally meant that his generation were dying off, but it made me seriously ask myself what I (and others my age) would have done if thrust into his position. I try to carry that with me as a reminder to be brave enough to take a stand.
The most moving thing I’ve read in a long time. I can see and hear (and even feel the raindrops) the story unfold. I’m glad you shared this important moment with us.
I love this piece and have also found in my life that people just need someone to listen. While in grad school, I volunteered at an assisted living place down the street from my apartment and to this day I remember the names of many residents, the poetry Joe shared with me about World War II, the bingo games and chair aerobics classes. It wasn't about any of the activities at all, it was just about listening and not forgetting these people who had lived full lives.
You must have heard the most amazing stories there, Stephanie. And what a wonderful gift you gave the residents by lending an ear and making them feel seen.
The elderly feeling misunderstood and overlooked, plus the witnesses to history slipping away daily are both brought to mind in your chance encounter and act of kindness. Thank you for sharing and good luck with your new job!
Thank you, Vicki 🤗 it is so easy to overlook the elderly, and yet we will all be in their position one day, if we have the good fortune to live long enough. I think the saying “treat others how you’d like to be treated” is very applicable here!
“I ask to hear their stories in case they need someone to tell.” Poignant and beautiful story, Sam.
Thank you, Jolene ❤️❤️
I have tears in my eyes a little over my lunchtime pasta because I'm Jewish so I'd have known exactly what to say: thank you. So thank you for helping him, and hearing his story.
❤️ I’m still struck by his comment that there weren’t many people like him left. I think he literally meant that his generation were dying off, but it made me seriously ask myself what I (and others my age) would have done if thrust into his position. I try to carry that with me as a reminder to be brave enough to take a stand.
The most moving thing I’ve read in a long time. I can see and hear (and even feel the raindrops) the story unfold. I’m glad you shared this important moment with us.
Thank you so much for reading, Minna! I still have a hard time believing this actually happened--the memory will be with me forever.
This was just wonderful. The bit about how he wanted to be seen...allergies around here.
❤️ thank you! To be seen and understood is what we all want deep down, isn’t it?
I love this piece and have also found in my life that people just need someone to listen. While in grad school, I volunteered at an assisted living place down the street from my apartment and to this day I remember the names of many residents, the poetry Joe shared with me about World War II, the bingo games and chair aerobics classes. It wasn't about any of the activities at all, it was just about listening and not forgetting these people who had lived full lives.
You must have heard the most amazing stories there, Stephanie. And what a wonderful gift you gave the residents by lending an ear and making them feel seen.
Fantastic story -- thank you for sharing! And congratulations on re-starting the job.
Thank you so much, Mary! And thank you for reading! :)
The elderly feeling misunderstood and overlooked, plus the witnesses to history slipping away daily are both brought to mind in your chance encounter and act of kindness. Thank you for sharing and good luck with your new job!
Thank you, Vicki 🤗 it is so easy to overlook the elderly, and yet we will all be in their position one day, if we have the good fortune to live long enough. I think the saying “treat others how you’d like to be treated” is very applicable here!
Powerful story. You never know. I have heard many through the years at the hospital.
Thank you, Larry. I can only imagine all the interesting stories you've heard!
What a wonderful story, Samantha - absolutely heartwarming.
Thank you, Rebecca ❤️