I was visiting a patient who was here for short-term rehab, and she expressed feeling lonely and fearful during that uncertain time in her life. I sat with her and held her hand and listened intently to what she had to say. Acknowledging her challenges and her feelings about them, I bore witness to her story. I also witnessed her demeanor shift, and from a calmer and more peaceful place, we were able to pray together, to sing together.
-Sue
The other day I passed by a resident sitting alone in an unlit common room, looking more downhearted than usual. I asked to sit with her and offered a listening ear. She spoke of a fellow resident who was in the hospital, and how concerned she felt for her. We then talked about what her neighbor’s friendship meant to her and the general importance of friendship and community in this place. I offered to pray for her and her friend, and she joined me in prayerful petition. She hugged me, and then sought me out the next day to share good news of her friend’s return.
-Jen
Greenwich Chaplaincy Services is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN 06-6104975).