Over
the past month, I’ve made the sweetest new friend in my widowed neighbor; who has,
in all actuality, been more of a pen pal. Although we’d never formally met, I’d
seen her in passing a few times while walking my dogs or leaving home. In
November, Ms. Phyllis, who lives downstairs, left me a small gift because she’d
bought the wrong pet food. This was the beginning of something unexpected. She didn’t
know it, but that was the nicest thing to present itself to me that day. I
certainly would thank her for being so thoughtful. 
We seemed to never catch one another in person after that; but
a few weeks later, I left a box of useful gifts and a thank you note at her
door. Little did I know, I’d given her something that was pressingly needed at
the time. I later opened my door to find flowers and a heartwarming thank you
letter from Phyllis, revealing to me more about herself. Captivated by her story, I was compelled to surprise
her with more from time to time: which I did. One mistaken purchase led to a
very honest and unconventional
friendship.
Through notes left at my door, and me leaving other random
gifts at hers, I’ve had a chance to acquaint myself with Phyllis personally and
to hopefully be an encouraging neighbor. Having not spoken to her in person, I finally
called the number she’d left. Informing her of who I was, she immediately exclaimed
how appreciative she is simply to know someone around. I wished her a Merry
Christmas and made sure she had my number in case she needed anything.
During this same span of time, a couple of amazing people showed
me graciousness, and it meant more for me than they’ll ever know. We often have
no idea how the little things we give others (time, kindness, friendship) have massive effects and lasting impacts on those receiving. I’ve recently seen
both perspectives, and it’s beautiful.
