Every now and then it’s wonderful to know that one’s words make an impact on one’s readers. With permission from Mark, a long-term care worker, I’d like to share his story which is worthy of repeating.
“There is a 97 year old at work named Barney. He eats his meals in the ground floor dining room. I usually get to work about 30 minutes early and sit and drink coffee with Barney and one of my co-workers. Lately I have felt very withdrawn and have kept to myself. I go in the door right before I clock in and keep to myself then clock out at the end of the shift and leave. The whole time I’ve been thinking, whats the big deal. I say good morning to him and he says good morning to me and I drink my coffee. My co-worker is still there, he won’t even know I’m gone. I just read your blog about the power of presence. Maybe I’m wrong. No matter whats going on in my life, maybe I need to be at that table.”
Beautiful.
Thank you, Mark, for your honesty and for your example of making a contribution as a human being.
Kareen King is a Registered Drama Therapist and founder of The Golden Experience™, offering keynotes, concerts, and workshops to enrich lives in long-term care. For booking information, contact her at kking@thegoldenexperience.com or visit www.thegoldenexperience.com. You may also signup for our newsletter and receive a free download.
