When I was unable to take my mom to church any longer, I was able to bring her Communion. I had connected with some wonderful people at the church who were very supportive and loving. A couple of days ago, one of the ladies called and asked if I would be interested in bringing Communion to an elderly woman who is no longer able to get to church. She told me the woman was 87 years old, living with her son and daughter in law, and had dementia. As I listened, I wondered if this was something that I would want to do. I was concerned about what my own feelings would be in a situation that so closely resembled my own. Then I considered it an opportunity to help someone with an understanding that comes from my experience. I told the woman I would give it a try. When she told me their names, I was floored. The elderly woman had the same initials as my mom. Her first name was only a couple letters different from my mom’s and her last name simply had the 2 vowels reversed. The daughter in law’s name was only a couple letters different from mine. It was crazy and felt very much like God’s prompting. I went over to their house and met them all today. The elderly woman was such a sweetheart. I felt she was both my mom and my dad. She was pleasant and happy and gentle like my mom. When we said the prayers together, she looked to me for guidance as my mom did. And when I gave her Communion, she said “Amen” and “Thank you” like my mom used to. After that, we visited for a while. I could tell that she was confused in the present time, so I asked about her past. I knew that was helpful for my dad. She told me all about her time growing up on a farm, taking care of plants and animals and driving the tractor. Then she looked out the big picture window and told me a story about the neighbors having to build a deck and railing because a little girl came to live with them. Both my mom and dad saw little girls. It was bizarre. When she got too tired to carry on the conversation, her words made no sense. I remembered the same thing would happen particularly with my dad. I excused myself and asked if I could come visit another time. She said yes. I talked a little bit to the daughter in law before I left and tried to be encouraging as we hugged. While I did think of my parents, I felt more comfortable and grateful to be in the position than I anticipated. And I look forward to seeing the family again.

I Found God today in an elderly woman and family who I was able to connect with and help.