It was an ordinary day, a Tuesday, except this particular Tuesday was my birthday. It was lunch time and as I walked toward the dining area, I noticed the perimeter of one table surrounded by two women and a man. My eyes were immediately drawn to the gentleman sitting in a wheelchair – my daddy. My heart did a flip and my chest swelled with pride to see my dad participating socially as well as doing more than just nibbling at his food. That sight alone was the best birthday present ever.
My dad proudly introduced me to his table companions and announced to all that it was my birthday. Seeing him beaming was like being wrapped in his arms. The two ladies greeted me and told me their names. That was the moment I met Sylvia. Her sweetheart face was framed in tight, white curls and her impish smile crinkled the skin around her blue-gray eyes. I was drawn to her gentle spirit and welcoming way of leading the conversation so everyone felt included.
I remarked to the nurse on my way out that afternoon that I would love to take Sylvia home with me. I was shown the gift of hospitality in the short time it took to eat lunch.
My dad’s days are ordinary and repetitive. The stimulation of watching the stock market report has lost some of its luster recently as my dad’s days are filled with physical therapy. As often as I visit my dad, there is so much more time when I am not there. My dad loves conversation and the mind-fulfilling stimulation that it provides. When I met Sylvia that day at lunch, I knew that God had provided this beautiful lady to break up some of the mindless monotony of my dad’s days.
[Tweet “We may find ourselves staring at a blessing not knowing it really is the hands and feet of Jesus.”]
The hands and feet of Jesus show up in all sizes, ages, and kinds of people. Sometimes we are staring at the very thing that is a blessing and don’t realize it. Sylvia was a blessing to my dad and this is how I know.
The gift of Sylvia was wrapped up in the story of a coffee date. Two people who never would have met if it wasn’t for unlikely circumstances and unfortunate falls. Two people who happened to be in the same rehab facility at the same time to undergo physical therapy. Two people who were brought together by the nursing staff to share coffee and conversation.
Happenstance??? I don’t think so. God knew and sent a blessing wrapped up in the gift of Sylvia.
God has a funny way of showing us the blessing in the hard. The silver lining in the dark clouds that hover when discouragement and hopelessness fill our days.
A coffee date one day and a wheelchair race in the hallway another helped to break up the monotony for my dad. As his primary caregiver, I learned that joy looks like hope. It is discovering a “Mary” heart in Sylvia to counter my “Martha” personality, which works hard to check off items on my “to do” list. If joy looks like hope, then Sylvia brought hope in her smile and warmth. She radiated a listening spirit and embraced and welcomed all those around her.
Dad is still in rehab giving it his best shot. Sylvia has since gone back to her home, but imagine how a chance meeting of two people led to joy for my dad and a meeting of the minds for both. Never underestimate the power of a blessing sent by God.
We never know when we are going to meet a Sylvia in our lives and certainly do not expect the blessing that comes from a chance meeting. But God knows and I venture to say that He places these people in our lives just when we need them the most.
Have you ever met a Sylvia in your life at a time when you needed it the most? What did the gift of Sylvia look like for you?
Here are some verses for reflection:
Luke 10:38-42
Romans 15:13
Hebrews 13:2
In grace and peace,
Mary
Blessed to be linking up with these fabulous ladies!
What a beautiful post. I just returned from my friend’s funeral. It was my desire to be a Sylvia to her but she wouldn’t let me. But God is the Giver of second chances and it seems her daughter, Susan, is allowing this Sylvia a bit of space. Isn’t that just like Him???
God is the giver of second, third, fourth chances. You definitely have the heart of a Sylvia but you and I know that accepting help is not easy for any people. I am one of those people who find it very difficult to ask for help. It doesn’t seem to be the way I am wired.
I am sorry for your loss and pray that we learn how to ask and then receive when we need help.
Incredible how God weaves things together, sometimes when we don’t even know we need something or someone! Oh, His faithfulness in the big and small!
What a lovely post, and I’m so glad I was introduced to your blog through Jennifer Dukes Lee today! #TellHisStory Congrats on being featured!!!
Your words really touched me. Thank you Christine for leaving such kind remarks. Jennifer is a beautiful story teller and spending time with her each week is good for my soul. God usually has to work hard to gain my attention, but He is teaching me to stay more focused so I don’t miss the unexpected blessings along the way. Blessings along the way!
What a great story, Mary! So glad to hear how God provided for your dad. My sweet MIL also fell last year (93yo) and I remember one day in particular in rehab … God provided a patient, gentle caregiver for her … That particular day was one of her hardest, and God gave her a Sylvia. So thankful! The hands and feet of Jesus are beautiful!
The stories that so many of you are sharing here in the comments are just beautiful. We all need a “Sylvia” in our lives and God is providing this blessing over and over. We just need to be open to receiving it. Praying we all experience the hands and feet of Jesus in our own lives. Blessed you shared your story.
What a lovely story, Mary. I’m so glad God provided a Sylvia for your dad! My father is living in a retirement complex, and a couple named Steve and Joanie have befriended him. He’s only been there about 6 months, my dad is newly widowed, and they’ve taken him under their wing. So heartwarming. God’s blessing, just as you say.
First, I can imagine how difficult it is to be newly widowed. I have lived this with my dad for the last two years. The blessing of Steve and Joanie hopefully gives you some peace and some joy for your dad. I am honored that you shared this with me. Blessings on your week!
What a beautiful story! I remember on our last night at the hospital after Pedro’s stem-cell transplant two patients were having an impromptu jazz concert in the corner room (where doctors did their ’rounds’ and family members could shower and relax for a few moments when not in use by the doctors). It was the perfect bookend to a long a tedious journey.
Thank you for sharing your story and this extra tidbit of the jazz concert. I always feel when I talk about being a caregiver, my story is not as challenging as other stories. The beauty is that we all have a unique perspective to share and God is the author of all the hard, messy and joy. Thank you for taking the time to pop in and read my story.
What a wonderful story, Mary! This is exactly what I wanted for my dad when we had to put him in a nursing home after his stroke. Sadly, his mind never recovered enough for us to see this happen. Your dad is blessed to have you, and as much as he enjoyed Sylvia’s company, I’m certain it is the thought of seeing your face that brightens his days! Blessings.
I know for sure that my dad loves when I visit because of the big smile on his face when I walk into his room. But realistically, I cannot be there all the time and knowing there are people like Sylvia eases my mind. I know how this has helped me and I wish you had the same thing when your dad was still here. I saw a sweet comment you put on Facebook the other day about your dad. I believe it was something about relishing the sweet memories. I understand the hurting heart when losing a parent and I am praying that yours continues to heal. Thank you for your sweet words!
Hi Mary! I do have a real-life Sylvia in my life. Well, my dad’s really.
My mom died five years ago, and my dad was completely destroyed. He just couldn’t live alone, his eyesight was failing, he was hard of hearing. But mostly, he lived with crushing loneliness.
Enter a sweet Sylvia who had just lost her husband. Three years later, they are the best of friends. They are each other’s support and care, and now neither are lonely. It is most certainly God in their lives, and it is a HUGE blessing for both of them.
God is so good!!
Blessings,
Ceil
PS Hope your dad continues to improve, and wins all his wheelchair races!
What a blessing for your dad to have a woman friend in his life. Not only is your dad blessed but I know she is too. God is so good and when we keep ourselves open to all He has planned for us, we see this over and over.
I am praying for your dad that he continues to be blessed by our gracious and loving God. And here’s to wheelchair races!
Love this story, friend!! So glad you can see God working around you and your dad. I’d love to meet Sylvia…she sounds like quite a gal!
Sylvia absolutely blessed me and my dad. When life seems frustrating or overwhelming, God is the master at providing a blessing just when we need it the most.I pray we all are blessed with Sylvias in our life. Love having you here, Holly! Love and hugs coming your way!
Oh Mary, I’m so excited to hear about sweet Sylvia. I know how worried you’ve been about your dad. She truly sounds like a gift from God in His always perfect timing. I hope all is well with you and you are making sure to fill your cup when needed, my friend. Continued prayers for you both. I’m looking forward to getting together next Friday and catching up! If you need anything, I’m here.
Thank you for being the hands and feet of Jesus for me with these kind words. I am truly blessed. I need to reminder to fill my cup because self-care tends to be last on the list.
I am looking forward to next Friday too. Love and hugs friend! Hope you are doing well!
THIS: “The hands and feet of Jesus show up in all sizes, ages, and kinds of people. Sometimes we are staring at the very thing that is a blessing and don’t realize it.” I love those words. It is, oh so true, God sends blessings often in unexpected places and through unexpected people. I feel that way often about my blogging friends…you, in many ways, have been my Sylvias! 🙂
Blogging friends are the best! It is beautiful when we work to be the hands and feet of Jesus through our words and encouragement to others. I love this community and am blessed by beautiful people like you. Praying we all experience a “Sylvia” or two in our lives when we need them the most. Hugs to you friend!
These words made me stop and think, Mary: “Sometimes we are staring at the very thing that is a blessing and don’t realize it. ” I hope and pray I don’t miss the people and events in my life that are especially heaven-sent gifts of grace. There is a Sylvia in my life who I rarely get to see but deeply appreciate her being there. She’s a friend from church who never fails to send a cheery and encouraging message in a card on a weekly or fortnightly basis. And often a little gift as well. She remembers my husband too and thinks of us as her family. We await each missive with great anticipation and take turns opening her lovely cards.
Most folk seem to have forgotten that I exist since I became too ill to attend church several years ago. But this one? She’s a lonely, elderly woman, isolated from her natural family, struggling with deafness and physical illness, who has a delightful, wicked sense of humour and a past that makes her uncomfortable to be around for some people. I know she visits the sick and does a great deal to support missions too. Her works of kindness are unseen and unknown by others and that’s how she likes it. Without her thoughtfulness, concern, kindness and faithful prayers my housebound life would be all the bleaker.
I am rejoicing with you that you have a special “Sylvia” in your life. We all need one from time to time. You are blessed to have someone who checks in with you and encourages you. I am sure there are times we miss the blessing right in front of us, but more often than not, we realize that something special happened. Maybe it is after the fact, but God is good at leaving us many hints.
Thank you for being a beautiful blessing in my life. Your sweet words fill me and send me on my way to ask God for more to share again. Blessings!
Such a heart-jerking story, Mary. I love how God sent Sylvia into your dad’s life to make his rehab journey more pleasant. Just knowing she was there must have lifted some responsibility off your shoulders as his primary caregiver. So God sent her for you, too. 🙂 As I open up my heart more, I’m finding more God-sent Sylvias online, including you, who brighten my days in this journey of life. I pray your dad will soon heal and recover his strength.
It is a story of unexpected blessing and one that came at just the right time. It also brings tears to my eyes as well as a smile in remembering it. The best part is the reminder that God sent me to show me that I am never alone and either is my dad.
Thank you for your continued prayers. I believe there are many Sylvias in this online world who love blessing others with encouragement. Thank you for being one for me! Hope your week is blessed.
I’ve probably met several Sylvia’s in my life–by God’s divine appointment, Mary. But one stands out to me. I had just recently been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at the young age of 31, so I went to a secular support group at a hospital in my community. At that time, that was not something I would have ordinarily done as I was much more introverted and insecure back then. But there was another young woman who shared her story that night with the group and she mentioned how the “Lord” had helped her in this new diagnosis of RA. After group, I hurried to her side to meet her and found out that she was a believer. Not only that but she was a counselor too and had a young son who was the same age as my second son. We ended up becoming close friends and supports to one another at that time and since then. It’s been more than 20 years since that first meeting and our friendship is still strong. I know God sent her to me in that very crucial and difficult time in my life and she has been a blessing to me ever since! I am so glad your dad found a friend too, Mary. I’m sure that has taken a load off of your weary mind–for which I am praying for weekly, my friend! God is always so good!
I am in awe of all the beautiful stories others have shared in the comments. Yours is such a divine appointment from everything you described. Never underestimate the immense love and power of God for each of us. Thank you for sharing your beautiful “Sylvia” story. God is so good!
My weary mind was relieved because I believe that my dad meeting Sylvia was a turning point for him. She has since gone back to her home but the week or so that she was around my dad made a difference. I appreciate your continued prayers. God is in every plea, heartache and desire we share in our prayers. He hears and never leaves them unanswered. Thank you friend!
Mary,
With every move I’ve made around this country…God has been faithful to provide “Sylvias” in each town I’ve learned to make “home”. I do believe that God sends His angels ahead of us and prepares a place for us. He is so loving that way. This blogging community has also been a “Sylvia” to me. Thankful for YOUR sweet friendship!
Blessings,
Bev xx
Your words hit it perfectly when you said God sends His angels ahead of us and prepares a place for us. What a blessing that you have been gifted with “Sylvias” along the way. I also agree that this online blogging community exhibits the hands and feet of Jesus over and over. I have such sweet friends that encourage me and pray for me and I count you as one of those special people. Thank you for being you and for leaving such sweet words.
Mary, I was blessed to read that God made that delightful provision for your dad. Praying that my mum would open her heart to the possibility of a “Sylvia” in her life. She is in long-term care and has shut her world down to t.v. and my visits. Such a small package, and so little joy that she allows herself.
I’m always encouraged by your words.
My heart goes out to you Michele because I have also felt the desire for my dad to want to reach out and keep trying. His rehab has been quite the roller coaster ride and it hasn’t been till recently that he has turned a corner. I will be praying for you and your mom as you journey through this season together. Thank you for sharing so openly with me. You are a dear!
Hello Mary, I enjoyed this short and beautiful story. Some people step into our lives even if it is only momentarily they leave us smiling afterwards. Thanking God for the Gift of Sylvia
How have you been, gal?
Blessings to you
I am thanking God for the gift of Sylvia too. Her momentary connection with my dad truly was a turning point for Him. I loved writing about her because it made me smile just to remember.
I am doing well and I pray you are too, Ifeoma! I am blessed you stopped by!
Oh, the way God works in our lives. So mysterious and leaves us in awe.
How wonderful for the two to meet. What a story.
Your sweet words really encouraged me today, Lux. God does make beautiful things. We just need to keep our eyes open and listen for the blessings!
Oh, what a precious story, Mary! I was SO blessed and comforted by your precious comment left on my blog tonight. It was just such a dear blessing to meet you and to be introduced to your blog, also. I love your story about Sylvia and your Dad. I do trust his rehab will go very well, and he will be able to return home soon. Meeting Sylvia was definitely a Divine orchestration that was absolutely meant to happen…for your Dad, and for you, too…a gentle reminder of His love and providential care and to let you know that even when you cannot be there, He is always with your dear Dad and is ever mindful of his needs. God bless you and keep you and your Dad always in His loving care.
Through this process of rehab, God has been very present for my dad as well as me. I don’t always realize it at the time but it’s almost like little hints are left for me to find to remember the deep love and goodness of God.
It was a pleasure meeting you too Cheryl. It was divine that we linked up next to each other and God blessed me with your words. May we both know that God is in our stories even on the days we feel alone or uncertain. Blessings!
Mary, Sylvia sounds like an amazing lady. I’d like to be like her when I grow up. 🙂
Shortly after we moved to Colorado, I attended my first women’s Bible study. I didn’t know a soul. When I was placed in a group, there was a young lady in there. She welcomed me with open arms, and made me feel welcome. We’ve since become close friends. It was her genuine, upbeat personality that was the gift to me on that day. God knows exactly how to intersect people’s paths and make beautiful things happen as a result. I’m so glad your dad had someone who invigorated him.
Sylvia is an amazing lady and as soon as you met her you could sense something special about her. To me that shows the hands of God right there. I am so glad you have met a Sylvia in your life at a time that you were feeling small and unknown. Thank you for sharing your story. My dad was certainly blessed by Sylvia. I do wish she was still there but God will bring someone else, I’m sure. I am blessed by your sweet additions to the conversation.
Oh I do love seeing the hands and feet of Jesus! Thank you so much for sharing.
Thank you Shawna! I would love to hear how you have seen the hands and feet of Jesus in your own life. So glad you stopped by today! Blessings!
Lovely story Mary. Thank you for including it as part of the #RaRaLinkup today. 🙂
Thank you Katie! Linking up with #RaRa each week is always a favorite. I was blessed by your words and so glad you stopped by.
You’re a Sylvia.
Absolutely, friend. Yes, you are …
Awww! Thank you for saying that! Telling me I am a Sylvia really blessed me today. Let’s pray together that we are all blessed with a Sylvia in our lives exactly when we need one the most. Hugs, Linda!
I love this story of the divine encounter between your dad and Sylvia, even if only for a few days. (That’s my topic this week too!). God is so amazing to link us up with the right people in our lives, for either their benefit, our benefit, and/or both. Either way, may God always get the glory. Thanks for sharing this, Mary. I pray your dad is doing well.
Thank you for these sweet words, Lisa! They really blessed me. My dad is progressing slowly but he is headed in a positive direction which is so good. God is so good at connecting us with just the right people at just the right time. Sylvia was just the right person for my dad as well as me. I’m praying we all are blessed with a Sylvia in our lives when we need it the most. Blessings!