We live in a wonderful neighborhood. People are always so concerned about each other and willing to lend a hand where it is needed. Most people in our neighborhood are in the 60 and over group. So it was surprising to find a couple much younger (I won’t say how much) living close to us, Chad and Jennifer McCarthy. We soon got to know them and learned what truly special people they are. In the 13 years or so that we have known them we have gone to dinner and played games and thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company.
During this time, because of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have been forced to stay at home and not spend as much time as we would like with friends and family. The other day I had to purchase salt for our water softener. Each of these bags weighs about 40 pounds. My doctors have warned me not to lift things that are over about 10 or 15 pounds. Then one of the lights in the laundry room went out. We have 10 foot ceilings and Analia won’t let me get on a ladder, (at least not more than a few steps to help with the top of the Christmas tree).
I kept thinking that I would wait until our son-in-law, Tim, was around and I would ask him to change the light and carry the salt to the basement. Then one day Jennifer McCarthy texted me and asked how we were doing and if there was anything they could do for us. I kind of jokingly said “sure there is a light that needs to be replaced and some heavy stuff that needs to be carried to the basement”. That evening Chad and Jennifer showed up at our door and promptly carried the salt and a few other things down to the basement and replaced the light bulb.
It is times like this that I have felt the most loved.
Gale L. Wolfenbarger
12 June 2020
There are times when people just need some help,
like we do
Not all have choice friends to lend a hand,
but we do.
Most people won’t come to heft heavy loads,
but you do
Or change lights too high for us to reach,
oh, but you do.
When we wonder who’ll help our neighbors in need,
yes you will
Be it rain or shine, both hard and easy we know,
that you will.
We don’t like to ask but you sought out our need,
yes you did
And then came on a run with a smile on your face,
yes you did.
When we wonder just who will spend time with us we know,
that you will
Whether to just play games or eat a fine meal we know,
that you will.
When the Master above asks if we knew we were loved,
then we will
Tell of friends who showed love through generous deeds,
yes we will.
Gale L. Wolfenbarger
12 June 2020
Copyright © Gale L. Wolfenbarger