Today was my monthly visit to the residential care home.  Overall it was 'quiet' with very few requests for visits.  But the visits I did have were, as always, privileged.

I spent some time with an elderly woman looking through her precious photo album, and learning about her family.  At the end of our time together, I prayed for her family, as requested.  Then she reached out, seeking a hug, before we parted.

To be trusted by people you know is privilege enough, to have a (virtual, I've met her once before) stranger express gratitude and love is something beyond the norm.

I am learning (or making up as I go along) a lot about chaplaincy, and very grateful to those who allow me into their lives, however fleetingly.