When I was in high school, somehow I met this girl named Lois Lee. She is what some might call "special" in that she can function in the world but not at the capacity that most of us can. She did graduate from high school and has always worked in her adult life as a dishwasher. I would occasionally see her at The Brass Lantern restaurant over the years. I accompanied her to our 25th class reunion, and she knew how to work the room.
In 2004 we moved to a different home on the same street in Alexandria, and much to my surprise Lois lived right next door with her mother. Her mother lived on the main floor while Lois had an apartment upstairs and ate meals downstairs. She now was working at Perkins where she still is employed. She was so excited that I was going to be her neighbor! She got to know my daughters and eventually my granddaughters. About two years ago due to her mother's age and condition, it was decided that Lois should move to a group home setting so she was no longer officially my neighbor, but we still visited and kept in touch.
Now her mother lives in assisted living, and Lois has moved to an apartment. For the first time in her adult life, she is living totally on her own with help from a few people. Now we have moved, but I did stop and visit Lois at her new place when in Alexandria last weekend. She is quite proud of her place and is learning to cook. Before heading back to Wisconsin, I dropped off a few kitchen items that I didn't need any longer. It makes me feel good to know that some of my stuff is now being used by a good friend who is embarking on a new adventure.
Thought for the day: If I can stop one heart from breaking, I shall not live in vain. If I can ease one life the aching or Cool one pain, or Help one fainting robin Unto his nest again, I shall not live in vain. Emily Dickinson
Very sweet!
ReplyDelete