That Feeling

Last Saturday I went with some ladies from my church to a seniors’ facility.  We sat with the residents and made simple Christmas ornaments for them to hang on their doors.

The woman who sat next to me was a little reluctant at first, until we were introduced and she learned who my husband was (he’d helped her with her computer a few years ago) and that I was Kathryn With A Why.  And I was surprised to learn that she is the mother of one of my church friends.  Anyway, we hit it off and enjoyed figuring out the instructions for making the ornament together.

As we worked, we talked.  She told me some of her history – how she met her husband on the coast when he was in the Navy, and how she lived in a one-room house when she first moved to Alberta.  When we were done making the ornament, I went to her room to help with some computer problems she was having.  I updated her browser and she showed me the Il Divo music videos that she enjoyed watching on YouTube.

When it was time to go, I gave her a hug and asked if I could come back and visit sometime, maybe bring my kids.  She seemed happy about that, so that’s what I’ll do.  I think we’ve just adopted a new Grandma in town!

The neat thing is, when I started out that morning, I had planned to do good for others.  I didn’t realize I would go home with that feeling – like my heart was going to burst with joy.  I’ve had that feeling many times, but each time it’s a wonderful surprise, though it shouldn’t be.  It’s that feeling God always gives His children when they show love for each other – at Christmastime and all year long.

I wonder how many other seniors would appreciate a visit.