Deborah Lindley

“Listening As he drove to his grandma’s home, his heart was low and sad. He’d always loved her little place and the good times that they’d had. He hoped that she would cheer him up and help him on his way. He felt confused and troubled on that bright mid-summer day. The flowers in her garden seemed colorful and kind. He raised his hand to ring the bell, then somehow changed his mind. “It’s me!” he called out hopefully, walking through the door. His grandma’s friend walked toward him, as she’d done countless times before. The two of them had lived so long in this peaceful home they shared. He was glad to see her standing there. He knew how much she cared. “She won’t be long,” he said aloud. “It’s her day to volunteer. Do you mind if I just stay and wait? She’ll be glad to see me here.” He walked toward the cookie jar and lifted up the lid. It smelled of fresh baked cookies, like when he was a kid. His grandma’s friend loved cookies. He didn’t need to ask her twice. “I’ll put some on a plate for us. Now wouldn’t that be nice?” They sat down on the sofa, the plate between the two, And savoring the sweetness, they sighed as old friends do. Then the boy began to speak. His voice was low and sad. “I’m feeling so confused,” he said, “Don’t know when I’ve felt so bad.” His grandma’s friend moved closer, but didn’t say a word.”
― Gail Van Kleeck, The Magical Interior Design Guide

“She raised her eyes to meet his so he’d know that he’d been heard. In that accepting silence, he began to speak. He spoke of his deep sadness, of feeling lost and weak. As he continued speaking, a part of him felt wise. His grandma’s friend had faith in him. He could see it in her eyes. He began to find the answers to the questions that he’d had. He felt stronger and more confident, in a way that make him glad. “I’m home!” his grandma called out, as she came through the door. “I see that empty cookie plate, would you like to have some more?” “Your friend has helped so much today,” the boy said with a smile. “It’s been so good to sit with her and simply talk a while.” “She’s such a true and treasured friend,” came his grandma’s soft reply. “I love the way she listens, how she looks you in the eye.” She reached out for the cookie plate and stroked her old friend’s head. “I don’t know what I’d do without this dear, sweet dog,” she said.”
― Gail Van Kleeck, The Magical Interior Design Guide