Calling

Over lunch yesterday Ron, the manager of the dining room, told us a story that he was a part of. There was a foreign man who used to come into the dining room who could only speak about 10 words of English. He does not come in any more and has a place to stay, but unfortunately has had 3 strokes. Ron went over to pay the man a visit and upon seeing that it was Ron the man's face lit up. Apparently he does not get many visitors. They spent some time just hanging out and trying to communicate but there was not much they could do. Then Ron figured he would let the man use his cell phone to make calls to people he knew because he had unlimited calls in the U.S. After about 10 minutes of explaining the man finally understood the offer and started making calls. He was unsuccessful for a few of them but then started reaching people he knew. His face would light up each time he connected with someone and even though Ron could not understand the conversations he could tell they were full of happiness. At one point the man was talking to someone and his words and tone took that of baby talk. Ron was a little confused but later learned that the man had been talking to his son and had reverted to a lower more nurturing form of communication. It turns out the man was not able to stay in contact with his family and friends because he did not have the money to make the calls, so he was very thankful for the opportunity.
Last night I was hanging out in my room, readying, talking on the phone, etc. when I heard some unfamiliar voices in the dining room. I went out to find out what was going on and found my roommates and some former JVs sitting at the table, talking and sharing a few drinks. It was a nice surprise. I joined the conversation and we shared what everyone does, talked about the area and all of that kind of stuff. There really is quite a nice network of people to meet and exchange stories with. I have much gratitude for this experience and the opportunities it offers.
Yesterday I ran into my cousin, Paula, who lives in San Jose. She was up in Oakland doing some work and called me up and stopped by work. Another quite pleasant surprise. I showed her the Center and she got to meet Steve, Tyrone and some of the guys and we just talked a little bit. I will be going through San Jose in a few weekends so it will be a good opportunity to get together. We also might be able to go on a trip to Lake Tahoe together, which would be pretty awesome. It is amazing to start to recognize the web of life that we have formed. Connections here and there, opportunities abound. I am thankful for the people I have in my life, what I can offer them and what they can offer me. After all we are all here to share what we have.