Vulnerability

It always amazes me how the smallest things in life can leave the heaviest footprints on your heart. There's a man I work with, middle-aged and single, with no children, who takes care of his grandfather every evening. Although the grandfather has been fighting for the past three years, this man was always there to push him, to keep him hanging on. It was his passion, almost like his duty. The man is one of the most loving and caring, yet one of the most strong-willed I've ever met and I've never seen a tear in his eyes until yesterday. I heard the news of his grandfather's passing and I knew it would be a tough night, especially because he had to be at work. I didn't say much to him all evening and when the day was done and I was about to leave, I went to express my condolences. I waited until he was alone and told him I was sorry for his loss. His back was turned and all he muttered was, "Thanks, Christina." As I turned to leave, I noticed he was crying. I've never seen him so vulnerable, so weak and upset. I didn't sleep much last night and his sad expression has been spinning through my thoughts all day. I don't really know why, but it made such an emotional impact on me.

Inspiration:  Listen.  Hug.  Be compassionate.  Love.

"It's a long, long road you gotta roll down, before you find your way, my friend. And it's a high, high hill you gotta climb, before you get to the top again."--Grace Potter and the Nocturnals ("Low Road")