Yesterday's Smile Card Challenge on the Kind Spring website was "Strike up a conversation with someone who looks like they need a friend." While waiting to have a prescription filled at my HMO's pharmacy this morning, I noticed a lady who looked very agitated and impatient sat down beside me.
I greeted her and asked if she was having a hard day. She replied that she was having a hard life and went on to
tell me about a number of problems she was having. I said a quiet prayer that I would have the patience to listen with with empathy and understanding.
I just made an occasional comment such as "Oh I am sorry you have to go through that" and "that must be really hard". When her name was called to talk to the pharmacist she told me "thank you for listening. I think I have the strength now to get through my day." I asked her if I could give her a hug, which she gratefully accepted. Then I gave her one of Mindy's peace doves a couple of my quote cards. It was a difficult conversation, but I am thankful that I was there to listen.
I greeted her and asked if she was having a hard day. She replied that she was having a hard life and went on to
tell me about a number of problems she was having. I said a quiet prayer that I would have the patience to listen with with empathy and understanding.I just made an occasional comment such as "Oh I am sorry you have to go through that" and "that must be really hard". When her name was called to talk to the pharmacist she told me "thank you for listening. I think I have the strength now to get through my day." I asked her if I could give her a hug, which she gratefully accepted. Then I gave her one of Mindy's peace doves a couple of my quote cards. It was a difficult conversation, but I am thankful that I was there to listen.
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- Posted by Annc
- Apr 13, 2018
- Comments (9)
Readers Comments
kjoyw wrote: Oh, Ann....what a kind thing you did for her. Your caring and listening presence was exactly what she needed. Certainly being heard gives us all strength to carry on. Bless you.
leoladyc728 wrote: so very sweet of you to do this. People sometimes need someone to listen to them
debbe530 wrote: Well done, Ann. Witnessing is such an act of love and kindness.
John74 wrote: Thank you so much for listening!! Sometimes that is all someone needs. ((((((HUGS))))))))))))))))
mindyjourney wrote: Thank you for being a listening ear for that dear woman â¤ï¸. Grateful you gave so freely of self and kindness :)
Painiacs wrote: Thank you!! Sometimes all that's needed is a ear without comments or lectures and a hug! Well done!
Mish wrote: That was POWERFUL, Ann. Bless you both â¤ï¸â¤ï¸
balou wrote: Thank you for listening to her, Ann! Hope the dove & quote cards, maybe it'll help her focus more on whatever beauty and happines she's got in her life
DANCE wrote: How wonderfully kind of you, thank you!
