One note does not make a symphony; one artist does not make an orchestra, but one phone call can make a world of difference.
My wife and I have been delivering Meals on Wheels to the homebound and seniors across Tampa Bay for over a decade. And like many, we learned very early on that it’s not simply about the food. It’s about social contact. It’s about putting the food aside to listen. Because so many of our recipients have little or no other contact with the outside world. So we provide nutrition to their bodies with a balanced meal and nutrition to their souls with the priceless gift of genuine connection.
During chaotic times like this, so many people across the globe —homebound, seniors and others less fortunate feel isolated, scared and more alone than ever. And let’s not forget friends and family we just never seem to have time for —even in good times.
So let’s rise above the chaos, emails, and texting to stop the music with the kindness of an actual phone call. Not a planned one. An unexpected/surprise one. And before you hang up, and no matter what you discuss, please take the opportunity to close with two simple but ever so powerful words: YOU MATTER.
So, stop what you’re doing, take a break, and make that call now – you’ll be glad you did. And who knows, maybe it will be habit-forming?
Great post Dennis. Just so happens I have an older neighbor who lives alone and we rarely have contact with. The other day I set aside my trepidation to let her know we were there if she needed anything. She was so delighted by the gesture. Never hurts to check on people, even in times of crisis. Stay safe during these challenging times my friend… 🙏
Already there, Dennis, great piece to remind all! These last few days I have reached out to many isolated and concerned with families. Although I have had no contact from my son or daughter, I pray they too are well..One of the workers at Martha’s kitchen where Danny and I serve the poorest in the area, had a cardiac arrest and never recovered, and yet, he did so much for others that the tribute to him was amazing by those who didn’t even know him.
Beautiful invitation…
Thank you for this, Dennis! I have friends and clients feeling the isolation. I was supposed to have a monthly lunch with an friend this Saturday. We are doing it over FaceTime.💖
Strong Ink my friend. I am getting ready to call a friend that played guitar in my band in the late 1970s and we parted on bad terms. Time to heal the friendship.
Oh, Dennis, I love the encouragement offered here to actually phone a friend. I’ve been talking on my cell phone with beloved ones every single day for days now. I’m so grateful I continue taking this action because these conversations are food for the soul-mine and my beloved ones including my daughter (in Ohio) and son (in California). The sound of the human voice and human laugh-even our tears or choked voices-doesn’t matter. The content of the conversation feels less important than the delicious experience of hearing the tenor, cadence, silent waiting of that person who now has become the center of the world-a lifeline of love. Thank you so much for this encouragement. I will stop typing and call another cherished friend right now. Shelter in love. Phone a friend. Yes!!
Dennis, you are a treasure.