Messages in unexpected places

I was completely overwhelmed and disheartened and stressed out by all I have to do at work when I left at the end of the day. I regretted scheduling an end of the day appointment at a state hospital, but since it's on my way home thought I'd be able to run in and out quickly.

When I got there the person I see was wandering away from the desk area and someone called out to him that I was there. I said hi and he said let's go. We went down to the basement to get coffee and then he wanted to sit outside. He's not very talkative and much of our visits are me talking about whatever I can think of. I often wonder how much of what I'm saying is really taking in although he does on occassion joke around with me.

We spent about 35 minutes together and it was time for him to go back up to the unit. In the elevator he thanked me for coming to see and when I replied that I enjoyed our weekly visits he stated, "I don't get many visitors." It took all my self control not to start crying in the elevator. When we got up to the unit I asked him to sign the paperwork I've been bringing with me for a month, but with the caveat that I'd still come see him even if he signs these papers. And he signed. I think he had hesitated because he was afraid by signing that it would mean the end of our work together. And when I got in my car I cried.

As a society we often forget the forgotten. Those people who are left in hospitals or nursing homes or institutions or group homes who have no family, no friends, and whose whole life is played out in the 4 walls that surround them. For me, a work assignment with someone who is known to be difficult has turned into a life affirming moment. For him, someone coming to see him because she was told to has become someone that he looks forward to seeing every week.

It is amazing how when you are down and out God smacks you across the face in a big way. You never know what impact you are having on someone, what difference you are making in someone's life.

His favorite food is fried clams (I learned that today) and I am going to get him some fried clams. Everyone deserves a little joy in their life and I can do that much. And there will be someone else in my prayers tonight.