107 ~ A Tender Moment

By Kay Heitsch

One thing I learned working in the memory care center was what people remembered and what they forgot.

People living in memory care may not remember their age, what they looked like, when they ate, where their room was, or even who their family members were.

One night, before I was leaving, I was doing my usual hugs in the family room when Ruth* asked if we could all get in a circle and sing a song. Ruth and I gathered everyone around, including those in wheelchairs.

I wheeled Lucy* into the circle. She was now in a lounging-type wheelchair. Lucy had stopped talking as her memory had faded. At first glance, it seemed she was no longer engaged in life.

I asked Ruth what song she wanted to sing. Her request was, Jesus Loves Me. As we were singing, much to my surprise, Lucy started to sing right along.

I can't explain what a tender moment this was. Even though Lucy had forgotten so much, she still remembered this sweet little song, Jesus Loves Me!

* names changed

Remember how I led you on this long journey. Deuteronomy 8:2