“Gladys?” I asked as I unlocked her door and stepped inside her dim apartment.
“I’m in bed!” she called.
I walked down the hall and turned the corner to see my 85-year-old neighbor roll her eyes in the direction of her legs, saying: “I can’t get out. The paramedics will be here soon. Will you call my daughter?”
She paused and added, “And bring me a slice of toast?”
I returned to my apartment across the hall and smeared homemade jam on a slice of wheat toast.
Sometimes I think about that morning and the honor it was to bring my old friend her last meal at home. She seemed to know, in the moment, what not being able to get out of bed meant. She looked around her home with a sense of finality.
In an apartment full to the brim of the things she’d collected in her 85 years of life, she simply sat and waited.
I think, in a way, that this is what the simple life does for anyone who walks it.
Today I’m over the moon to be at Becoming Minimalist sharing more of my story with Gladys and what those moments taught me about living simply.
I’m a longtime fan of Joshua Becker and his movement—inspiring people to elevate the important—so it’s an honor to share his space for the day. #lifegoals
Do me a huge favor and pop over in one quick click? I so appreciate it!
Kari
Thank you for this piece! I am in a life transition and your writing today is just the nudge I needed for some introspection on meaning and why.
Erica Layne
I’m so happy it came to you at the right time, Kari!
Krista
Great post Erica. I will comment further over there. Btw, second time in two days I’ve happened upon your writing. A happy thing:)
Erica Layne
Krista, I am ridiculously late saying so, but I really appreciated your comment! Off to check out your blog!
Rachel Thueson
YES. I love it. What a touching story about Gladys. You were/are a great neighbor and a thoughtful person (just like our mama).
Erica Layne
Thank you, Rach! I think the exact same thing about you.
And your comment kind of made me think of Gladys as my “Joyce.” Fun to think of…