My cleaning lady came today. Usually I leave the house before she gets here because I feel awkward having people cleaning around me while I sit in front of the computer but I've been really dedicated to my writing lately so I chose to stay and ignore my discomfort.
After exchanging the normal pleasantries, she asked how my sons are doing. She's very friendly and caring to everyone but since both my sons are latino, I think she feels a kinship with them. I told her about my oldest son who is having problems with his feet. I told her that due to being so malnourished for the first 2 1/2 years of his life, some of his bones haven't developed and his feet are deformed. The doctor is trying to alleviate his pain for as long as possible, hoping the bones form otherwise he'll need one or more surgeries. She of course was concerned, offering to keep him in her prayers. And then she started talking about God, how He can create miracles, how she's witnessed them, etc. She went on to tell me that science and medicine are miracles too and how this is part of God's plan for my son....how I've already witnessed a miracle because God brought him into my life instead of leaving him in Guatemala where he would have most certainly been crippled. She said if a painful surgery is necessary, maybe it's part of God's plan for him because he may use the memories of his pain to become a doctor who helps the poor, or starts a charity or just become a better man.
She probably talked for ten minutes without stopping. Under normal circumstances I follow my father's philosophy--I don't care what you believe, just don't cram it down my throat-- but this was different. She was so gentle and caring, her voice soft and low. I didn't feel like I was being preached at. She wasn't "spreading the word" because her preacher told her to but actually speaking from her heart, from her own experience, from her faith. It was so heartfelt and real. I can't really explain it but her words were honest, profound and deep. She moved me to tears.
Don't get me wrong. I've never been one of those people who think only the wealthy or well educated are worthy of giving advice. I've always believed that everyone brings something to the table. I just didn't expect it. I assumed I'd get the typical "I'll be thinking of you" and probably an "it'll all work out" from her just like I've said a million times before to other people. But what I got from her was pure honesty, pure hope, pure love. My body felt awash with peace. It just goes to show you, inspiration really is everywhere....
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