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.

Comments

[Michelle]

It's so good to hear from you. Please know you were missed.

[Dave]

Welcome back, FGL. I always enjoy your postings and today's was especially moving.

[Susan]

It's wonderful to see you back - I've kept checking! Will say a prayer with you for this dear man.

[feelgoodlibrarian]

Thank you so much. You probably have no idea what your missings and welcomes mean to me! And Susan, I know that man can use your prayer.

Gratefully,

FGL

[sarah]

So good to see you post again, i check pretty regularly, and omg, you move me to tears with your words. Please keep writing!

[Kim]

Wow, am I glad that you are back blogging again. I love reading your posts and they make a positive difference in my life.
Thank you.

[A]

Thank you so much for sharing these moments, FGL... your stories really do help me focus on the little things we do that make a difference.

[FGL]

Thank you all so very much. Your little comments really make a big difference to me!

FGL

[Kr]

Welcome back. Thanks for doing this. You've been missed. This is important work and your efforts and contributions are greatly appreciated. How frightening for that caller, knowing this may have been completely preventable. He was lucky to have found you that day. You always do know just what to say, or not say.

[LG]

welcome back :)

[rcn]

Your posts remind me of the importance of engaging in Random Acts of Kindness on a regular basis. Thank you.

[Sheila]

I'm so glad you're back. I've really missed you, and even though I don't know you, you've been in my prayers. Your blog brightens my day and I hope that you are able to keep with it. You make a big difference!

[Jenn]

I always look forward to what you post. I'm reading a debut author at the moment and his novel is very similar to your recent message. It's a very small world our actions have a HUGH effect on people and we don't even know it most of the time, good or bad!
I stongly recommend Jay Asher's new book. I devoured it in 1 sitting. Be well.

[Charley Soares]

for me this blog has as many ways to emphasize the variety of points of view, I really think it's great this blog.