When I moved to Waterville, I didn’t know anyone. Because I had polio, I use a power wheelchair so I can go all over town.

When I first went out, a few people might say hello to me, but usually they just put their heads down and kept walking.

One day on my way to the library, I met a wonderful man who was very friendly and a genuinely nice person. He blessed me with his cross and then asked me if I was OK. It was late fall and he was worried I might be cold.

That was more than 10 years ago. Since then, John and I visited two or three days a week, year round. Sometimes it was 10 minutes sometimes an hour, through all the seasons.

We talked about everything from the latest news and politics to how my grown grandchildren were doing, but he never forgot to remind me of God’s love.

The first year I received a Christmas card addressed “To a Dear Friend.” I received nine more Christmas cards from John, which I cherish.

I was going to the library recently, and I realized how empty I felt knowing my friend was not going to be waving and calling my name, wanting to tell me the latest news and sharing his love for life and the blessings of God. I believe we are all a little richer in spirit, thanks to my friend.

Sheila Malone

Waterville


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