89-year-old Norma Cook was the “little old lady” who lived in a neighborhood house alone with her cat.
She developed a sweet friendship with her neighbor Chris, a 31-year-old model and actor who lived across the street.
And when the day came where Norma was no longer able to care for herself – Chris stepped in and helped out in the most radical way.
He didn’t just bring her a meal from time to time, or drive her to the doctor’s office.
When he realized Norma was no longer able to care for herself, he actually invited her to move in with him so he could care for her.
Not wanting her to spend her final days alone, Chris raised all the funds needed for her medical care to give Norma the proper care she needed.
But he didn’t just fund her care – he actually cherished their friendship, and spent time with her.
They laughed together, and enjoyed a mutual and healthy friendship.
After Norma passed away, Chris wrote a heartfelt tribute on his Instagram page.
“It’s with a heavy heart that I share the news that earlier this morning the world lost a truly inspiring, beautiful woman….
Perhaps Norma’s lasting legacy is that her story helped the world to see the true meaning of love. Norma reminded me that we all are created to love and all desire to be loved.
This year Norma has reminded us what Valentine’s Day is all about. To love another is not about living struggle free or never experiencing hurt or loss, but to fully and deeply open our hearts to one another without fear.”
Chris continued on in his tribute to share that despite our differences, we’re all “worthy of love.”
Amen!
What a beautiful story.
Chris could have carried on with his busy life and ignored Norma.
But he didn’t – he saw her where she was – and realized he had the ability to help her – so he did.
His gracious act of kindness reminds us all about the importance of keeping our eyes open to the needs around us.
You might not have the ability to have the “little old lady” across the street move in with you – but perhaps there are people in your neighborhood you can help.
Whether it’s a single mom whose husband just left her and needs practical assistance, or a family raising children with special needs who just needs a night of respite or a night out – there are countless ways to serve the people around you.
Cheers to Chris for making Norma’s final days here on earth full of love and comfort and for providing a warm home so she didn’t have to die alone in her house.
The world would be a much better place if we all extended random (and deliberate) acts of kindness to those in our sphere.
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