Govinda Puri
Today at work, something deeply touched me.
One of the residents called me over, and when I asked what she needed, she simply said, “Govinda, will you give me a hug?”
I said yes without hesitation.
As I wrapped my arms around her, I could feel so much in that moment — loneliness, nostalgia for festive seasons spent with family, and the weight of time.
It was as if a lifetime of memories, joys, and losses was quietly shared through that brief, tender embrace.
It’s deeply moving sometimes, seeing how much our elders carry within them.
They hold so many years of experience, some of which are filled with joy, but many others with loss, change, and solitude.
They’ve seen the world shift in ways we may never fully understand.
And yet, a simple act like a hug can be a gentle reminder that they are seen, they are heard, and they are loved.
Working in aged care is a profound experience.
It teaches me more about compassion, patience, and the power of human connection than anything else could.
It’s in these small, everyday moments where we truly see how deeply intertwined, we all are.
A kind word, a shared laugh, or even a hug can break through the isolation that often surrounds our elders.
What struck me most today is how often we overlook these moments, thinking they’re just small gestures.
But they’re so much more.
In the grand tapestry of life, it’s these simple, authentic connections that carry the most weight.
They’re reminders that we are never alone in our journey, and that even in the later years of life, there’s always room for kindness and understanding.
I wanted to share this moment because it’s a reminder that it doesn’t take much to make a difference in someone’s day.
A hug may not change everything, but sometimes, it’s exactly what someone needs to feel a little lighter, even for a moment.
Moments like these stay with you long after they’ve passed.
