My mom texted me at 6 in the morning this past Monday.
"Call me when you can", it said.
She is a very healthy 73 year old, and even though I keep my ringer on when I sleep, my phone on the nightstand for emergencies, I immediately called her back...Maybe the VCR was blinking 12:00.
Long story short, a family member of a male friend she had about 30 years ago was trying to reach her because her name was in his will.
He unfortunately passed away 2 years ago to the day.
She was named as one of the beneficiaries to his estate.
My mom had no contact with the man since their friendship in the 1990's, but somehow her name was in the legalese of his final wishes.
I remember him being so kind to my mom, and I remember her being so happy in his presence. A happy go lucky attitude, and a joy for life.
Nothing ever materialized, and they both seemed OK with that arrangement...Even though I encouraged her to pursue things, she never did..an unfortunate circumstance of divorce.
You never truly know whose lives you touch at any given moment.
Personally, I remember doing the coveted 4am-6am shift on Q104 back in the early days of my career. I would have a young woman call me who seemed lonely, and we would talk nightly..Nothing too deep, but sometimes ventured into God and family..I learned she had a disability...
About 6 months later, the overnight security guy called me at about 5am, saying that there was a young woman who wanted to visit me..I asked who it was, and he told me her name.
She got on the elevator, came up 18 floors in her wheelchair, only to deliver me cupcakes.
Those first few months we talked, she was thinking of taking her life. Apparently, those conversations gave her a small lifeline to keep going. She had gotten help..She was gonna be OK.
You never truly know whose lives you touch at any given moment.
As you navigate this rainy Wednesday, and daily life, always be aware.
Someone's need may be greater than yours.
Maybe it's a co-worker, or the person at the grocery store, or a difficult family member who is always bitter..Be kind...
Life has meaning when you stop making it about you.
Don't do things because it may look good to others or on social media...Do things because...it's the right thing to do...
All my best as you navigate life and the relationships in it
XOXO Glenn
If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, know that someone is always there. Additionally, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 988
Additional resources HERE
