Grandpa’s Helper (07/18/2024)

I watched as the older man patiently taught the youngster. His voice was calm and encouraging. The youngster listened attentively and watched the man’s face carefully. The boy tried to do what the man said, but he didn’t get it quite right. The man smiled and said, “Almost.” Then he gave the boy the instructions again, but this time with different words. The boy got it right. The man smiled and offered the words the boy wanted to hear, “Perfect,” he said. The boy smiled and responded, “Thanks, Grandpa.”

Watching the two made me smile. I wasn’t sure who got the greatest reward, the older man who was able to use the wisdom he’d gained from experience or the youngster who learned something beneficial and whose accomplishment was noticed. They both were wearing pretty broad smiles. I felt privileged to have been a silent witness to the mutually affirming interaction.

As an “old” person myself, it warmed my heart to see that gentle man being given the opportunity to share who he’d become over his lifetime. He didn’t just share his wisdom gleaned from experience, he also shared his patience acquired and perfected along the way. That’s the way it is supposed to be, I told myself.

I also associated with the youngster, recalling in that moment how very many times along the way I have needed a patient teacher, one who would show me the way, encourage me when I was floundering, affirm me when I got it right. I hope we all have such memories because the way is challenging, and we need guides and advocates along the way.

The image of those moments stayed with me throughout the day and into my evening reflection and prayer. I prayed to the LORD for the opportunity to use my “trail sense” for the benefit of others. I prayed for the grace and virtues needed to be a good companion along the way to my peers and a guide for those new to the journey. I prayed for the humility to recognize that I still need help along the way and for openness to the Spirit working in my life often through another’s presence.

As we continue on the way, let us be open to those moments when we can be a guide to others, supportive and patient. Let us also open ourselves to the wisdom of others accompanying us. And above all, let us be aware of the LORD at work in lives through marvelous and mysterious ways.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.