Stories of Kindness from Around the World

A 72 Year-Old Gem


--by heartofflesh, posted Aug 14, 2013
Today, I was at an ATM that is situated inside a petrol bunk.  The security guard (who was a 72 year-old man) gently reminded me that I cannot use my cell phone inside the ATM.  When I came outside, I had a desire to talk with him.

At first, I felt a little sympathetic.  In my initial impression, he seemed like a poor, elderly retired man who was still working at this ATM.  I ended up listening to him.  

He spoke to me about his family, and particularly about his son and daughter. He told me that his daughter always cares for him, even though she is married herself. Then he described his son, who "has a heart of stone".  He advised me me to save money for my old age (not that I am all that young :)), and I told him that I give away everything, trusting in the bounty of life.

As we spoke, he opened up quite a bit. He simply loved telling me about his life--his family, his limited income, and how the family still thrives despite all the hardships.  I had nothing to give except time.

I thought about giving him money, but it didn't feel quite right.  I have made the mistake in the past, and as we spoke, it became clear that he wanted my time. Not my money. I did not want to take away his dignity by giving him money. 

By the time the conversation ended, I was close to tears.  
Ordinary people-- when given the opportunity to share their story-- are real gems.  

Sometimes, time and presence are the best gifts you can give. It certainly made my day to listen and be in the presence of this elder.
 
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Readers Comments

debj wrote: Precious gift given today. Bless you for sharing it with us!
moral12 wrote: Very kind of you to share your time with the elderly gentleman, who obviously needed someone to listen. Kudos to you!
Dobby wrote: you're absolutely right. For many people today, time and a listening ear are what they truly need yet too often it's overlooked because it appears so unimportant. Yet listening is probably the most important gift you could give someone. It lets them know they are worth your time, their not a burden, something to throw away.

It was said that Mother Teresa, when she spoke to anyone, made them feel like they were the only ones in the room, as if nothing else existed and she could do this anywhere, even in the middle of a crowd. My priest friends can do this. It's something I pray for the grace to be able to do.

It makes a difference!
jsmc10 wrote: I find that time is sometimes the best thing you can give, because you can never get that back, I think that's a quote somewhere aswell :) I bet you it was the highlight of his day, talking to you :)
FairyBubbles wrote: Time is the thing to give - thank you for reminding me today. (((HUG)))
Mish wrote: Listening is a gift to the person being listened to & a kindness act by the listener. Giving time , to listen..... wonderful!
DeniseM wrote: The more we give of ourselves, the more divine presence we have in our lives. God bless.
MakeSomeoneSmile wrote: Giving your time is a wonderful thing to do! :)

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