"I have never let my schooling interfere with my education."
---Mark Twain
Today I had the privilege of speaking with a woman in her 80s. The purpose of the call was to initiate a friendly relationship with her so that I can spend time with her on a regular basis. It's a program of the Jewish Social Services Agency called the Friendly Visitor Program. Activities can include taking her to do errands, grocery shopping, browsing in stores, having coffee or lunch, or just being with her where she lives.
I expected the conversation to be short and matter-of-fact. It actually lasted over 45 minutes and covered so many topics. In the small world department, it turns out she grew up and lived in the same town that my sister does in New York, and she went to the same high school as my mom (but did so several years earlier). I knew of the shopping area where she worked and of several landmark buildings that she mentioned.
Currently she lives alone and is somewhat lonely. But she seems like a lovely person and after our long conversation we decided that our first "visit" in November will include an outing to the new shops in Chevy Chase. She hasn't seen those yet, and while I've driven by at least 100 times, I've never gone in. Should be fun for both of us!
After getting off the phone I realized how much I can learn from this woman, about life, loss, aging, and more. I'm really looking forward to meeting her in person.
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Also delivered about a dozen or more used men's jeans to Miriam's Kitchen, along with more donated mugs. I continue to be amazed at how quick people are to give used stuff in excellent condition and not even ask for a donation slip - very kind of them, and I know it's much appreciated by the organization.
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