Beauty's Charm

As I visited my mother in the nursing home today, I brought her into the social room where she could sit with other residents. They welcomed her and made her feel very comfortable.

I noticed as every woman came into the room, someone always had something remarkable to say to the newly arrived person. "I love your sweater. I like your earrings. I like the color of your pants. You look wonderful. You looks so beautiful today."

The recipient of the compliment beamed and said "Thank you." I was touched by their tender care of one another.

Once everyone gathered, we started to do some artwork: colored pencils and printed images. My mother and another lady sat there uninvolved. I asked if they would like to join in and they said, "I don't know how to do it." I asked, "May I teach you?" and they picked up the pencils and started coloring. When they hesitated, I asked, "What color would you like to do next?" When they picked up a pencil, I suggested another part of the image to color and they just beamed. My mother said, "I didn't think I could do this." I said, "It looks beautiful," and she beamed.

Later on we talked about her train ride. I told her I talked with Grandpa and Grandma and Dawn Mari and said, "They are looking forward to your arrival. You can go when you like." My mother burst into another smile and said, "Yes, but I'm not ready yet." On your own time. They just want you to know that they are excited to see you again.

As it was time to leave, we talked about a few minor things. I hugged her, kissed her, and said, "Youa are so beautiful." She simply smiled.