Providence Brings Brothers Together

Ted called Volunteers In Action in July of 2019.  His eyesight was deteriorating and he needed help reading his mail and could use an occasional ride to appointments. Ted also mentioned that living in his assisted care facility limits his conversational topics.  His life lacked hope and joy in its present state.  He wondered how he would ever get through it.

Ted and his volunteer, Ron, really did not have much in common.  Their faith practices, political views, and life experiences differed greatly.  What they shared however, were kindness and love for all people. Once introduced, their friendship grew. Ron provided stimulating conversation which friends value.  Ted trusted Ron with the bills .  They ventured out in Ron’s truck.  With Ted holding onto Ron’s arm, Ron guided Ted into doctors offices, grocery stores, and restaurants.  Ted shared his interests of opera, puns, and humor.

In March, Ted contracted the Coronavirus.  He was hospitalized during the height of the epidemic and passed away at the beginning of April.  Ron mentions that having to say good-bye is difficult.  “We walked arm and arm together.  Literally and figuratively.  I will miss him.”  

Thank you Ron, for giving joy and hope to Ted in what no one realized would be the last months of his life.  Thank you for taking time to show Christ’s love to a neighbor in need, putting all personal differences aside and loving a brother.  Your action of selfless friendship brings us to celebrate God’s goodness carried out through his servants.  May we all find someone with whom we can walk closely.  Side by side. Arm and arm...until we see Jesus face to face.