Let me tell you about my neighbor who is truly a portrait in courage. She is a very private person and although she has lived here for several years, I don't know much about her. She is unable to walk without assistance and yet she bought a 2 story condominium. with laundry facilities in the basement of another building. When I see a battered baby stroller empty at the top of the stairs to the laundry room, I know Marie has managed to descend the stairs and is waiting for the washing process to complete before dragging herself home again.
She gets picked up for work at 6:30 in the morning by a van for the handicapped and comes home late in the afternoon. When she is home she walks a feisty little dog named Sophie. Or rather Sophie takes herself for a walk while Marie follows along behind aided by the single crutch and twisted walking stick you see here. She always has a bright smile and a cheerful greeting.
She did allow me in one time when she couldn't get the battery in her smoke alarm to stop beeping. It was on the ceiling in her upstairs hall and Im sure if she could have figured out how to climb a step ladder she would have changed the battery without help.
Sometimes a friend will drop her off with a bag of groceries and if I am outside and offer to carry them in, she waves me off cheerfully but no with no room for discussion.
Every little task we do easily and without thought is a great challenge for her. Sometimes I wish she would let me make her life easier but that is clearly not her vision so I return her cheery greeting, talk to Sophie and watch them slowly but resolutely go on their way.
Wow, Marie sounds like quite the lady! I'm always so impressed by people like her who are able to make do with the curve balls life has thrown at them and be fiercely independent.
I loved the story Allison. It is amazing how so many individuals like Marie strive to maintian their independence for as long as they can, and we can do nothing but respect that desire. I can only imagine how she and others like her must feel, knowing that one day they will need our help, but until then, they are fine on their own.
What an amazing story about your neighbor. It amazes what some people are able to do and not complain about their situation. Great shot & inspiring words!
What a great picture to lead into your story. Bless you for being a person that is willing to make someone's life a little easier. Bless her for doing all the things she can for herself. I am glad you are there to watch over her.
Nice story and picture...perhaps she is afraid to let too much slip from her grasp of abilities and tries to continue on with what she is able to accomplish. give Sophie a good pat for us too. :o)
