Small world

I’m sorry for the long silence. I had some minor health issues, Christmas came, I missed my daughter when she went back to school, and life seemed....small. Strange to say, I know, for someone who preaches all the time about the importance of small.

But today I had an interview with a local celebrity, a woman with a cause. Lo and behold, she began talking about each person doing their part, doing what they are good at, to help make the world a better place. She was encouraging, inspiring. So here I am, doing again the small thing I do.

A man called the desk and asked for the number for City Code Enforcement. “I....can’t seem to find the number,” he said.

“Let me look a minute,” I said, and I was stunned to hear him burst into tears.

“I’m sorry,” he said. “I was just diagnosed with cancer.”

“Oh, sir, I am so sorry.”

“They say it’s asbestos in my home,” he sobbed, “and I need to call Code Enforcement.”

“I’m sorry, sir, I know it must be frightening. I’m a cancer survivor myself.”

“You are?” He continued to cry, but more quietly.

“Yes, it’s been almost a year since my surgery. The doctors will do all they can for you.”

He was quieter as I gave him the number, and when we hung up, I said, “Bless you, sir.”

“Thank you.”

That’s all – a phone number, and letting him know he’s not the only one. I am the one who slowed the tears today, and I prayed a little prayer for those who will be the ones to slow the tears tomorrow and throughout his treatment.

Maybe it will be you, who knows? It’s a small world.