I am discovering the magic in storytelling. When someone shares their story, the essence of their own unique being overflows in a radiance that is beyond description. To share something of themselves, their story, this is where our humanity mingles with the divine. A sacred space where we speak of things that matter…and we reveal our truth, our heart.

To risk connection through a light hearted laugh and a willingness to go deep within another’s grief; this is where we find the courage to greet our own. Beauty dwells in vulnerability and provides a portal into seeing someone’s secret hopefulness, a love carried forth into each new day with
reverie. The following is one of those stories, adapted from a Values in Action nomination from some years back but remains vibrant in the treaure chest of my heart.

Lillie Porter, home health aide cared for a woman who was afflicted with a brain tumor and was in her last phase of life. This was Lillie's first experience caring for a patient who was bedridden as she was relatively new to our personal care division.

The women often spoke of the Huntington Library in Pasadena and how beautiful it was to explore all the delightful sights. Lillie mentioned that she had never been there, so the patient said she would take her there and that she would drive, as she knew the way. This woman had always been in charge of her life so Lillie went along with her request. She brought several items from her closet for her to wear and the patient selected an outfit, adding "Don't forget the shoes!" Lillie laid her pants on her legs and placed all her other clothes over her as she lay in bed. Next, she put on her sunglasses and then they simulated the drive as the women explained to Lillie the different exhibits and the beautiful flowers in the gardens.

While this was going on one of her daughters came in to the room and asked in astonishment, "What is going on in here?" Lillie looked up at her and whispered, "Please come along with us." At this point, the woman was reliving her fond memories and taking Lillie and her daughter on a virtual tour as she shared her cherished experiences.

There were many times that Lillie went on these virtual journeys with this woman, such as the Sushi Restaurant for dinner and martinis (Lillie has never had a martini, so the woman advised that she should only have one, but she, however, was going to have two!) They would wear wigs and sunglasses, and these adventures just went on and on as she felt her life was still worth living, if only in an imaginary way!

Lillie helped her to continue to live and love life through the gift of reminiscing for as long as she was able to do so.

Thank you, Lillie for offering your heart as well as your hands in loving service.

Shared by Liz Sorensen Wessel

Note: the artist of lovely watercolor is Bobbye Terry who shared that the painting is entitled “Reverie in Orange and Lavender.” She describes the scene as depicting a blonde woman in a lavender field on a sunlit day, the sun twinkling through the trees. She is emulating Jesus by practicing solitude in order to reflect and pray. Lavender symbolizes purity silence, devotion, serenity, and grace. It serves to calm the body and the soul. Thank you Bobbye for sharing your beautiful art and spirit with us!