Life lesson: The Country Way of doing things is to help your neighbor, if you can

My friend, my grief partner, sold her house.
I am to the point of tears. I am afraid she will move away. I am afraid I will lose her.
Her children want her to move close to them. The problem is they are in opposite directions and in the middle would be an isolation zone for her.
She has history here in this community. She knows people everywhere. It takes a long time for her to go into a store, she has to stop and talk with everyone. She is a walker, so has to stop and talk with others walking on the street.
I have asked her to move in with me if she needs a place to stay. It is not just to my advantage, it is the “Country Way.”
Growing up in the country, five miles from the nearest small town, was a long way in those days with only one car.
We all relied heavily on our neighbors. If anyone needed an egg, a cup of sugar or a lift into town, it was provided. Those things were carefully paid back as soon as possible.
After I left home, my parents took in my sister and two children after her husband died. Then they took in my cousin who had a fractured femur and was in traction. She was there for a long time. After that, they took in an old boyfriend, who stayed with them for years.
I was long gone by then, but I remembered the Country Way.
My neighbor said it was good of me to offer my home to a friend. He must be a city boy.
My grief partner has to do what is best for her, but I will help her in any way I can, even if it is just to listen or give her encouragement.
Letting go is part of re-entering life, knowing there will be more losses.
I hope she moves in with me, at least for a little while. It is the “Country Way.”
Let me know how you are doing. What surprises are in your life? I care.
© 2023 Our New Chances
Photo Credit: © 2023 Rachel Gareau
Comments