Connecting with Feeble Woman Who Has No Fear

As she responded to my question, I could see there were only a couple of teeth left in her mouth. She had to be at least 90 years old and her hat was pulled down over her weathered face to keep warm. The old woman did not fill out her clothes that were kind of dirty and tattered, hanging loosely on her. I asked her near the post office if she needed help and if she felt safe. She was using the bicycle handle bars to lean on to help her walk and drivers in a hurry in a parking lot or busy street might not see her. She looked up and stopped walking, answering me. “The only thing I do is pray to keep me safe. That is all I do all the time. I pray if there is traffic or not.”

I acknowledged her sharing and she added, “I am not afraid when I pray.”

Her aged eyes were clear and she seemed glad I spoke with her. I had the feeling not too many folks would spend time connecting with her. She is part of my community and I would have gladly helped her if she needed it. I wished her well and thanked her for chatting with me. She smiled an almost toothless grin that was so precious to witness.