Stories of Kindness from Around the World

New Furry Friends


--by carolec, posted Aug 9, 2015
We have neighbors whose adult son has been living with them since losing his job over 5 years ago. He is the 5th child of 6 and he has struggled throughout his life.

His dog died in early July and the loss has affected him deeply, understandably. He built his daily life around the dog walks and made relationships in the neighborhood with other dog walkers and owners.

His parents do not want him to get another dog because they want his schedule to be more flexible to find work and not worry about walking the dog. It is a hard situation, I can see he is depressed and lonely without his dog. I also see he helps his parents a lot with chores and cleaning.

All I could think to help by including him with my family for walks with our dogs, for a BBQ, and to go get a coffee. Then I thought maybe something else would help.

So I drove him to the local humane society, which is a direct and fairly short bus ride from his place, and he agreed to volunteer to help walk and love the animals there. He was resistant initially but after only one week he has already told us about how much they need his help. He seems to have purpose. I am pleased that he got himself out to go help and am more pleased that he feels useful and valued. That is so important for all of us.
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Readers Comments

MilJ wrote: A fantastic idea-i wish someone would have done that for me when i was in that situation!
KindMyst wrote: Carolec, that was a wonderful alternative to the dilemma and the young man had perked up emotionally. Hopefully he can find a paying job in good time.
AnnC wrote: What a wonderful kindness you have done for your neighbor. As the old saying goes "give a man a fish ato feed him for a day, teach a man to fish to feed him for a lifetime. " giving him the nudge to get involved in something where he feels useful and valued is an immeasurable gift and could very possibly be the nudge that helps him back on his feet! Blessings to you.
melnotes wrote: Wonderful kindness!
Brindlegirl wrote: What you did and have done for this man, is above any kindness you ever could have given him. You have helped heal his heart and sent him on his way towards healing. Magnificent display of unconditional love and kindness. Bless you ♥
mish wrote: Totally awesome & beautiful idea!!!!! Kudos, Carole. Bless.
pyronik wrote: :-) so important that he's regaining purpose, & fulfilling a need for that shelter. & he's also gaining skills and experience that may lead onto a job. Winners all round (((Carole)))
mindyjourney wrote: Thank you, my friend! What a wonderul gift you have given neighbor's son <3, a meaning to his life with service :))). This post has me smiling :))))) all over!!
terre wrote: Well done, carolec! Not only is he around animals, but he is doing something useful, and it might even lead to some kind of work that he could enjoy and earn money both!

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