My Neighbor

When you live in a small country town, you are privileged to get to know your neighbors. For twenty-six years, my husband and I lived in a small town in Alabama, United States of America. One day I happened to see some men working in a vacant lot as if preparing it for occupancy. I watched the progression each day. Eventually, they moved a trailer there. When they finally finished, I looked forward to meeting our new neighbors.

I never saw anyone for days, not even a vehicle in the driveway. One day, as I was driving past, I saw a young lady going to her mailbox. I stopped and introduced myself and my hubby. She smiled and said, “My name is Elaine also—Deborah Elaine.” I told her I had been waiting to see a vehicle in the drive, and she told me about her automobile accident and that she was no longer able to drive. I let her know that we go into town quite regularly, so she could ride with us whenever she needed to go. We exchanged numbers. She became a regular passenger, and I was happy to help. I found out she suffered many challenges after her accident.

We became close friends, and I helped her do many things around her home. I also invited her to church, and she went many times.

As time went on, my husband, who is sightless, became ill.

I explained to Deb but let her know I would help her when I could. Pete eventually had to go into the hospital. He stayed in for a month. When he finally came home, we drove past Deb’s home and noticed the door was closed, which was unusual for her.

We went by a few more times, and the door was still closed, so I stopped and knocked. No answer. We decided to visit her sister, and I asked if she was OK.

Her sister gave me a look that told me Deb was not OK. She told me Deb had passed away over the Christmas holidays. We cried as she told me all the details.

My Bible says, “Love thy neighbour as thyself” (Mark 12:31, KJV). Who is our neighbor? Anyone with whom we come in contact. Though it could be very challenging to try to help Deborah while taking care of my husband, God was always beside me.

God, please help us to show compassion toward our neighbors.

When it becomes overwhelming, remind us that You do not call the equipped; rather, You equip those You call.

Elaine J. Johnson