A Suggestion

I had the distinct pleasure and privilege today of doing something so simple, yet so meaningful, that I had to share it with you.

You know that Pixie plays the harp. What I don't think I've mentioned is that her teacher is a living legend in harp circles. She taught my sister-in-law in the '80's, and she teaches Pixie now. She is in her late 70's and God thoughtfully arranged for her to live in the assisted living center half a mile from our house. In the '80's, my mother-in-law traveled 100 miles one way every week for my sil to learn from this woman, and she's right around the corner from our house!

Anyway, today I did her a very small favor that literally brought her to tears. I shopped for a graduation gift for one of her other students, who is graduating high school this month. She likes to give her harpists embroidered handkerchiefs, and I found a local embroidery shop that had some lovely offerings. I ordered the handkerchief, and when it was ready, I took it to the assisted living center along with a small box, tissue, wrapping paper and ribbon. Mrs. W. was so pleased with the hankie she squealed with delight! Then I wrapped it for her and placed it on her end table and she called and invited the graduate to come by at her convenience for a visit. She is so excited to give this little gift that she can hardly stand the wait!

Do you have a friend, family member or former neighbor in a nursing home or assisted living center? Would you consider offering to help them with shopping for graduation or wedding gifts? Mrs. W. says that more than the loss of her own independence, she grieves that she can't do for others as she once did. She had tears in her beautiful gray eyes as I said goodbye today, and she will have the universal joy of giving a thoughtful gift to someone dear to her.