Stories of Kindness from Around the World

Not so much smoke here this week so I made it to the nursing home with my harp. A lot of people were asleep that morning. I ended up playing for a sweet elder who was hugging a stuffed dog. She smiled and said yes, she liked harping. She would focus on my hands a lot and stare into space, jiggling her dog and petting him. She didn't sleep but kept looking into space and sometimes would smile at me. I asked her if she liked it. Oh yes. She said she would like it if I came back.

I next found my elder gentleman friend in his room. He is the one who usually wants some harp. He keeps his door shut and windows open. His room is peaceful and fresh. As usual, I played for a half hour that flew by. This man always shuts his eyes and drifts. He is a great listener. We both don't know where the time goes.

I had a surprise pleasure as well. I checked to see if my rather imperious woman was in her room, but she was out. However, she has a new room mate, who is a friend/patient of mine! While not on hospice, she is there to heal from an injury. So I found her in the dining room enjoying hot tea and was able to play a few pieces until the din from impending lunchtime put a stop to it. Seeing her was a special delight. This person calls me "Turtle" as my practice is "Wise Turtle Acupuncture." She loves music and listens deeply, with great focus. I gave her a dove and she informed me that she wanted to make them, too. Perhaps I can show her how, next time.

When I was done, a woman who does cleaning there thanked me as she pushed her cart down the hall. She has thanked me before. Really warms my heart.