Being Available

The boys and I had an usual opportunity yesterday -- to help a stranger in need.

We were playing at a playground near Grant's school. The playground was virtually empty other than my boys and two other children and their mother. I noticed the mother sitting on a nearby park bench while talking on her cell phone.

Within a few moments, I noticed the woman was now reclined on the park bench. I couldn't help but notice how she was disengaged from the activities of her children.

I gave the boys their five-minute warning before departure and wandered towards the other side of the playground where the woman happened to be on the park bench.

Just then, the woman sat up crying and asked me to take her phone and talk to the nurse on the other side of the phone line. The woman was having chest pains, rapid heart rate and was about to pass out.

The nurse asked if I was a friend of this woman. I explained that no, I just happened to be at the same park. The nurse explained that this woman needed to call 911 and asked me to make sure she did so. I told her I would.

The woman ended the call with the nurse, called her sister-in-law to pick up her children, tried to reach her husband and then called 911.

After the calls were placed, I offered to help her move from the park bench (which was smack dab in the blazing sun) to a shaded location a few feet away. She declined noting that she would pass out if she moved. Instead, I stood behind her on the park bench to shield her from the sun.

Within minutes, the fire department and ambulance arrived with the woman's sister-in-law close behind. The boys were of course fascinated by the fire truck, ambulance and corresponding excitement. But they were also a huge help trying to play with the woman's children to keep them entertained.

I continued to stand as the resident shadow-maker as the paramedics evaluated her. I shared with them the information I knew. Before we knew it, she was off to the hospital.

Both the woman and her sister-in-law thanked me for my kindness and help. They acknowledged their appreciation for the kindness of a stranger.

The entire episode made me feel good. I was happy to have had a purpose in being at the park that day (in addition to quality time with my sons). I actually felt honored in having been there at that time to help. Just being available made all the difference to this woman.

I recall a number of times when people were available to me, especially throughout Grant's journey. So many people helped during that time. My neighbor across the street was a master of availability. She was supportive in very gentle and consistent manner. She never pushed or forced any help, but was constant through her e-mails, phone calls and prayers. Thank you Charla!! (NOTE: the number of people who offered and provided support during this time are too many to list here. Please know I deeply value and appreciate every loving gesture every one of you offered!!!!)

I invite you all to look into your lives and consider how you are being available to those in need, whether a stranger, a loved one or an acquaintance. Let your availability be known and feel the honor it brings to you.

And Tabor, wherever you are, I hope you're doing well!