Buying Groceries
If you have an elderly neighbor, stop by on your way to the grocery store and ask if you can bring them anything they might need.
My neighbor, a single elderly woman in her late 70’s who walked with a cane, was rear-ended in a traffic accident. Although she was shaken and sore, she would be okay after undergoing a few weeks of physical therapy for injuries to her neck and back. Her car, on the other hand, was not in good shape. It was in the shop for over a week until the insurance company ruled it as a "total loss". Her nephew began the hunt for a used car, one she could afford and that was large enough to get into and out of with her ongoing hip problems. While she was able to get a community transportation service to take her to physical therapy during the three weeks that followed, she had no way of getting to the grocery store. Noticing this, I offered to pick up some groceries for her on my weekly shopping trip. Not wanting to be a bother, she only asked me to buy her some bread and milk. I assured her it was not an inconvenience and that I was happy to help. I insisted she needed fresh fruit, vegetables, canned goods, and protein as well. Her items only filled one extra bag and were not difficult for me to collect while I was buying the same things. I will never forget the look of gratitude on her face when I brought them to her door. Take a moment to observe your neighbors and see if there is a need you can fill. You will be flooded with good feelings and the satisfaction of helping another.