This morning, while preparing breakfast, I glanced outside and noticed my upstairs neighbor, a lovely woman in her mid-70s, struggling to unload cases of soda from her car. Instinctively, I felt compelled to help her. I rushed outside and greeted her warmly, saying, "Please, let me assist you." However, she replied sharply, "No, I’ve got it."
A bit taken aback, I considered that she might prefer to handle things alone. I gently asked if I could at least carry the cases up the stairs for her. Again, she insisted, "No, I don’t need help. I’m not going upstairs yet." I respected her wishes and replied, "Okay, well, I’m here if you need anything." She looked back at me, surprised.
Later, as I was about to clean my cat’s litter box, I heard a knock at the door. It was my neighbor! I welcomed her with a smile, and she immediately apologized for her earlier rudeness. I reassured her, saying, "It’s okay, I understand." I offered her a chance to come in, but she declined.
Our conversation continued, and she kept expressing her apologies. I insisted it was fine and even invited her to try some tea I had. After a moment of hesitation, she agreed. I mentioned that my cats would likely come out to greet her if I left the door open, and to my delight, she stepped inside.
As I got tea out of the kitchen, she seemed genuinely amazed at my kindness and lack of resentment. I sensed that this moment could be a turning point, and I prayed that when I shared the source of Words of Mother’s Love with her, her heart would be open to receive it.