This summer we had the honour of hosting at our sisters’ residence, a Syrian family awaiting admission to their apartment in the city. While they waited, mother, father and three young sons enjoyed their first floor accommodations close to a grassy area and winding sidewalk.
One morning, as two of the boys were looking out the window, they saw an elderly sister out for her morning walk suddenly fall. In a flash, before a nearby sister could run to help, the children raced from their room to assist the tall, stately woman. Although they tried to help with every ounce of their energy, they were unable to get her to her feet. Fortunately, aid appeared quickly. Sister was rescued handily as two pairs of bright shining eyes watched vigilantly.
The talk of the day was how two young boys brought instant care and compassion across age and language barriers to a woman in need. Now Sister, sporting a bright green cast on her left wrist, has two new Syrian friends–in fact, she has a whole new family of friends!
Jean Moylan, CSJ