The assignment for our Writing Group here at the Waters of Excelsior on Friday, June 13, 2025 was to applaud someone. The following was what I presented in honor of a resident whom I chose to leave unnamed, but who represents so much that is good in what seems like a tragedy.
I APPLAUD YOU
At least every half hour
You ask what day this is.
And in between you
Inquire about the time.
Then you ask when they will be
Playing the game you enjoy,
The one you will engage in
With full understanding
When it begins.
When nothing else is going on
You read your book.
I don’t know if it’s the
Same book over and over
Like the stories of your life
family, husband and occupation.
And always you are the first
To clear the table to make space
For the newcomer
Or help place the wheel-chaired person
Comfortably at the table.
And fetch a glass of water
For the person who wants it
Even as you pick up what the
Person with the walker has dropped.
You’re always there to open the door
When you think I want to come in.
I applaud you for all this —
What really matters,
The essence of who you really are,
Goodness, generosity, kindness.
monagustafsonaffinito 
This is so lovely.
Thanks Pam, A compliment from you means a lot.