I got a lot of Christmas cards this year, beautiful images and loving messages, and I thank the people who send them. I got one today – it was sitting on a table at the Mansion when I went there this morning – that was special to me.

It was from Jackie, a relative newcomer to the Mansion, a shy, thoughtful and very intelligent woman who is visually impaired, almost to the point of being blind.

You may recall we got her a lighted reading stand with a powerful magnifying glass and she is able to read again. Jackie also is an avid Bingo player and is a faithful attendee of our Friday games.

“Thank  you,” she wrote, “Jon and Maria,” for all your fun and help through the months.”

I don’t need a lot of thanks and many of the residents are not able to offer any, but I feel much loved and appreciated there. More than anything they appreciate people who just show up.

This card meant a lot to me, it was not easy for Jackie to write it, and it came from her shy but very loving soul. Merry Christmas to you Jackie, I am grateful for the chance to help  you once in awhile, and for the fun we share.

Jackie never laughs out loud, but out of the corner of my eye I see her smiling at me.