There have been various times in my life when I believe I have encountered angels. Today was one of those times.
This has been an indescribable year for us, packed with unexpected traumas and joys. And in between, there have been a steady flow of challenges, which have left us sort of living “on guard.”
As I have battled back and leg pain, I became aware of how much tension I was holding in my body. But I did not realize it was visible to others. I always try to put on the “brave face.”
Today we went to session #30 of Jay’s cardiac rehab. I was sitting on a bench outside, while I waited for Jay to park the car. I was lost in thought when I noticed an elderly woman, who was walking with a cane.
She started for the door and then turned around and looked directly at me. Her smile was so full of kindness and compassion, it was like looking into The Face of Jesus.
She left her companion and walked over to me. With no introductions or any explanation, she said, “I want to give you a hug. Is that ok?”
I was completely caught off guard, but agreed. She hugged me, not as the frail lady she appeared to be, but as a person somehow connected to The Source of all Power.
In the few seconds of that hug, it was as if all the empty places inside me were filled up. All the dry places were watered. All fatigue and pain were released. Love flowed into every cell of my body.
She then released me and without another word, walked back to her companion. I called out a thank you. I asked her if she gave out hugs to people. She smiled and said, “Yes, when they need it.”
She went on inside. Jay came immediately after that, so I expected to see her inside. But she was gone. Inexorably vanished.
Was she an angel? I don’t know, but I know she was sent to me by God. She gave. I received. And I am so thankful.
“Remember to welcome strangers, because some who have done this have welcomed angels without knowing it.”
Hebrews 13:2
