Today, during my shift at the hospital, an elderly gentleman in his late 80s or early 90s walked in. He had a cane in one hand and a nice gift bag that read “Happy Birthday” on the other. I greeted him as he entered and asked where was going, he responded that he was here to visit his wife who was admitted couple of days ago. I told him the room #, gave him a visitor pass. He slowly walked towards the elevator, and I went about my tasks.
About an hour or so later he came down to the lobby with a sad face. It is hard to gauge expressions with masks on, but I felt he was sad seeing his head hang down. I asked him if he needed help. He nodded his head indicating "yes" and walked towards me and said in a low voice –"they didn’t let me see my wife…." , then he raised his hand and repeated the sentence, trailing off at "my wife.."
I didn’t know how to react, just stood there not knowing what to say. Moments later he said, "I'll come back tomorrow.." and turned to walk away. I took couple of steps towards him and asked if he needed help getting to the parking lot. He shook his head indicating a "No" and walked away. I had not realized that tears had formed in my eyes until the old man’s frail image began to blur as he walked out the door slowly.
I blinked the tears away, swallowed the lump and turned around to see a newborn baby was released to go home. Parents & the newborn being walked out with balloons accompanied joyfully by friends/family. A smile had made it's way to my lips as the giggles faded away watching the happy family walking out. But unknowingly the tears had come again. This time, in awe of the changing colors of life.
My heart is heavy today. I wanted to put this in words before something else replaced it in my memory. Sharing my feelings with you all here! 🤗❤️
Debate Mansion
