My mom never learned to drive and the telephone was her lifeline to the outside world. Her family was far away in Ireland and she looked forward to her weekly phone calls. She would set herself up in her chair next to the telephone with her address book and a nice cup of tea. Sunday afternoon was the sacred time because that was the cheapest rate for international long distance calls. She rationed them out and planned who she would call each week. When the phone rang (no caller ID) and discovered it was a friend or family member calling her, she was surprised and delighted. Her day was made.
The Big Idea
This gave me the idea for a way that we can help those dealing with feelings of loneliness and isolation right now. A way to help those living alone, caring for a person with dementia or just an elderly relative who misses seeing others? I’m calling it the 12 Calls of Christmas. Each day beginning December 12 make one phone call to someone you haven’t seen or spoken with in a while. Just ask how they are and let them know you care about them and are thinking of them. That’s it. Social isolation is a huge problem with CoVid, here’s one way you can help. Will you do it? Make a list (check it twice) and just make one call every day. Your call could be a blessing to someone feeling lonely. #12callsofchristmas
