I believe there are some people in this world who can make anyone happy. The kind of person who puts a smile on every face, and joy in every heart. For me, one of those people is my new friend Patricio. I met Patricio back in June when I started accompanying him to physical therapy, and since then I have enjoyed my time with him tremendously. Besides the obvious physical manifestations of his condition (he is paralyzed on the right side of his body), Patricio is also unable to express himself verbally. But, he is very responsive to my questions and he loves to sing, despite the fact the lyrics are not articulated.
Love is Patricio’s communication. Every week he teaches me that expression is so much more than words. Patricio reminds me that life is fragile; that today I may be able to walk, but tomorrow I may be confined to a bed. He reminds me that I am lucky to have what I have, and that I should be more grateful for everything. He is a strong soul, and although he and his family are very poor, he radiates joy.
The following picture is of me and him at Artesanos de la Vida (Artisans of Life), the rehabilitation center.
It is only a few hours I spend with him every week, but I look forward to those days very much. Even if I am extremely tired, or not feeling well, I always know that he will cheer me up. He truly is an inspiration for me. Last year, Patricio was not even able to walk, now he is much more mobile and is becoming more independent. It is especially great to witness how much he has improved even since the first time I met him.
The following picture is of the fugon (shuttle), which picks Patricio and I up from his house, and takes him back home after therapy.
Working with Patricio has been a small service project I have been involved with since coming down here, but being with him has had a huge impact on my entire experience. I am glad I have met him and I know I am going to continue to enjoy my time with him.
If you had the chance to meet him too, I am sure you wouldn’t be able to help but smile.
