A RESPONSIBILITY BECAME A GIFT

I had a standing appointment with my Grandma on Sundays. After eighty-five years of good health, the arthritis in her knees had stolen her freedom and sentenced her to life in a wheelchair. Without the independence she once thrived on, my grandmother felt bored and lonely. She desperately enjoyed visitors and lovingly objected when anyone said it was time to leave.

In addition to my visit, she cheerfully anticipated a visit from the men from her church. David and Don faithfully came to share communion and pleasant conversation with her. They had made a commitment to God and their church to serve in this way, and they had a sense of responsibility for my Grandma. Every week for five years David and Don brightened Grandma’s Sunday afternoons with their visits. Because of their faithfulness and reliability, Grandma was able to stay connected to the church she had loved for many years.

When my Grandma passed away, I was touched to see David and Don at her funeral. They had fulfilled their responsibility to care for my Grandma. Their tears told me that they had grown to love her over all those years. What began as a responsibility became a gift.

This material is published by the Faith Committee of the Character Council of Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Reproduction and Adaptation is encouraged.