Write To Life     by Elana Horwitz

On Call

Elana Horwitz

originally published in Partners In Kindness

A couple was spending time in my neighborhood while the husband underwent medical treatment. I kept apologizing that I was unable at that time to lighten their load in traditional ways, such as having them over for a meal or babysitting for their children. However, I really wanted to find a way to help them. The least I could do was to offer to be on call if an emergency happened at night. To my surprise, the woman said that was exactly what she needed for her peace of mind! My offer seemed small in my eyes, but meant a lot to her.

And she did call one night with a mild emergency – her child had injured his foot at home while both parents were at the hospital. I was able to reach a doctor at midnight, so that the mom could instruct the babysitter about how to take care of the child. I was so glad she really called, and amazed that I was able to help, after all! G-d had helped me find a way to help.