They Know My Name!
By Sharing Jan's Love, I Live Fully and Interdepently!
Estimated reading time: 1 minute, 51 seconds
“Excuse me, who handles Mr. Brown’s order?”
As I approached the deli counter at the Garwood Shoprite, I awaited my turn to inform the manager, Therese, of my name. However, I overheard her inquiring about my order before I could speak. Did she already know me?
Who has Richard Brown‘s order?” Therese called out.
Therese had already memorized my name!
John is working on your order now,” she announced.
I always show my gratitude to Therese as I retrieve my order.
Since the passing of my spouse, Jan, my circle of acquaintances has expanded and diversified.
Jan had always been worried about my limited social life as we grew older. She had more friends than I had and feared I would be lost in retirement.
Since the end of the COVID pandemic, I have been shopping on my own, so they have no idea whether I am single, married, or widowed. Nowadays, I have established more casual relationships, such as with the deli counter staff. Although they are always busy, I have tried to be friendly and patient with them.
Apart from my close friends who knew me when Jan was alive, people don’t identify me as a widow. They see me as a neighbor, a friend, or someone who enjoys walking. However, I always carry Jan’s memory with me and continue to share her love.
It’s incredible how every step I take seems to impact the world, all thanks to sharing Jan’s love. It’s like a domino effect, where each action creates a chain reaction. When more people unite and work towards a common goal, the ripples become waves, altering life’s fabric. Witnessing what can be achieved when we work in unison is truly awe-inspiring!
The Jan Lilien Education Fund sponsors ongoing sustainability and environmental awareness programs. Gifts made this month; I will match dollar-for-dollar. All donations are tax-deductible.
I receive a commission when you buy a book or product using a link on this page. Thank you for supporting Sharing Jan’s Love blog.
Seamlessly moving between these communities strengthens each one and makes me healthier. Everyone should consider creating community mesh networks. My multi-community mesh network has been a lifesaver throughout my grief journey.
Although it cannot replace what I lost, it allows me to bring my loved one's spirit into my new life and share her love with everyone.
