AUTHOR: Julie Niewald, Director of Life+
Josephine inspires me. She is eager to have a braided rug and rocking chair. You see, Jo would like to read to the children in our Kinder Village Child Care when it opens early next year. We both have a combined love of books, and soon we’ll have our first traveling library for the Elders in the Sister Annette household at Episcopal Homes. Our vision is coming true.
I read to Jo and she chimes in, her raspy voice no more than a whisper. We strategize, plot and plan as we arrive at our conclusion. Everyone loves a good story no matter where they are in their journey.
Jo and I met through the Extended Family Member program which offers companionship to Elders in our households at Episcopal Church Home. Little did I know the joy I would find in our friendship. When we first started reading together, Jo just listened. One day she surprised me, and picked up where I left off. Since then, we take turns and when her voice strains, I take over. Luckily our books are short in length. We giggle and sigh in delight as we motor through the stories, marveling at each artist’s ability to render the characters so beautifully. Putting aside our book, Jo’s eyes sparkle as we chat and dream. We hope to have a traveling library in each of our six, skilled nursing households one day.
Last week, I read The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein to five Elders. It is a delightful book about life, love, a boy and a tree.
Our shared enjoyment of the story brought expressive smiles and subtle nods. I am already planning what book I will read the next time we are together. Our shared experience was one of true enjoyment; embraced by those Elders whose voices seem increasingly silent.
To be continued…