Joseph was eighteen when I first met him, a hulk of man with dark eyes that always glanced away, and a permanent hunch, like a cowering animal. He didn’t communicate verbally, but with patience and a steadying touch, could type out his thoughts, if the mood struck him. Some days he would pace and flutter his hands, in a rhythm only he understood.
I trust your intuition, was his first message to me, a confidence I didn’t share, but it was a start.
We met once a week, sometimes to “talk”, sometimes to walk, or go for a drive, usually to his favourite restaurant. Some days we met with a circle of others to meditate, and share stories.
At one of these gatherings, as I led the group in meditation, Joseph came to stand behind me and put his hand on my shoulder.
“Can I ever be whole?” His voice was stilted, unfamiliar.
“I’m sorry, did you say something, Joseph?” All eyes raised.
“Can I ever be whole?” he repeated.
Not sure if it was the miracle of Joseph’s speech, or the nature of his question, but tears came as response.
Joseph patted my shoulder, as if to say: “Not your fault”, and the room fell into stunned silence.
Later, in privacy, I asked Joseph how I can help him be whole. He typed:
“You see me as whole. Hold that vision in your heart and I can succeed.”
***
Today’s challenge was inspired by Paul Vincent Cannon’s poem, To Be Made Whole. I have not thought of my friend Joseph, nor his wise words, for sometime, so I thank you for that Paul.
All are invited to participate using whatever format of expression you wish. Just remember to link back here so we can all find your work.
Look forward to your responses.
One Woman's Quest II 
Agreed!
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https://curatingthoughts.blog/2019/11/22/when-words-fail-us/
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What an emotional moving story. You made a powerful difference in his life, for sure.
My contribution:
http://oneletterup.com/2019/11/23/all-of-me
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It was mutual.
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I am sorry for what you are going through. I think the initial treatment should help. Fingers crossed.
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Clicked on the link but it said ‘nothing found’. Did you delete this?
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Interlude – https://awisewomansjourney.wordpress.com/2019/11/20/interlude/
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You have a way with words, my friend.
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Sometimes one has to make a physical move to start the journey towards wholeness. odaciuk.wordpress.com/2019/11/20/waiting-2/
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It is very true. Was just thinking today about my relatives who left their homes to come here, knowing that their homeland held no promises for them.
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Yes, my parents came over also from their homeland after WW2. When I moved three years ago, it felt like a relief.
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I’ve heard it said that change is always good. I know our move here has been good.
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Wonderful!
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What a beautiful memory and reflection, it did bring tears both sad and joyful, a blessing (and thank you for the compliment too), we need more Josephs.
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You are very welcome. Yes, we do need more Josephs.
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Here is my take. I don’t see where it went through – https://amanpan.blog/2019/11/19/steel-collar-heartbreak/
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“I never mattered”…perhaps the worst feeling ever, to know our love and efforts are not reciprocated. I was not able to comment on your post for some reason, Eugenia, so I’ll leave this here.
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I’ve had issues with commenting most of the day. Perhaps, it is on my end.
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Or it’s WP!
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🤨
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A very touching story, V.J., and sends worthy message. We can learn a lot from each other.
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So true; thanks.
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My pleasure!
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Such a touching story, V.J. Joseph was a very aware soul. How we see others, either help or hinder their growth.
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So true. He taught me so much.
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https://reinventionsreena.wordpress.com/2019/11/18/reprehensible/
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Dear Reena, you have stirred me this morning with your words.
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Thanks a ton for your deep interpretation!
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You are so welcome!
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Whole lot of meanings for this one, lol.
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A very moving story. A gift you gave each other.
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Thanks Heather. He taught me a lot.
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