Bobby’s Story
On April, 2008, Malachi House became the Home of our 1300th resident. Bobby came to us for the same reasons so many of our residents come…they need love and care. The changes in Bobby were beautiful. Quiet, reserved and backward, quickly became quiet, reserved and loving. He spent his mornings on the “smoking” porch, not only smoking but being our unofficial greeter and waving to all who entered our Home.
He quickly became friends with all our residents, but especially with Willie. He and Willie spent many companionable hours on the smoking porch becoming fast friends. When Bobby was able to leave the House, and Willie wasn’t, he would make sure Willie’s cigarette supply was replenished. When either man was getting snacks or coffee, they would make sure the other was taken care of, too.
He loved having visitors, especially a young man who became a volunteer as part of a local school project. The young man had seemingly never had a male role model and for whatever reason he and Bobby bonded almost immediately. So much so, that even after the school required hours were finished, the young man continued to visit Bobby. Both gentlemen benefited from these visits.
In his “former life” Bobby had been a landscaper and loved the art of growing beautiful plants. He proceeded to teach the staff, volunteers, and other residents to appreciate and love plants. When we were tempted to quickly put seeds in the soil, he would caution “just move a little slower, and the seeds will thrive.” He also taught us to talk to the plants and they always grow better. He was aware that he “may not see them grow, but might be able to see them come up.” Through Bobby, we learned to appreciate not only plants, but people, too, and that patience is always needed to enjoy either.
Bobby is always free with his smile and friendly words of encouragement. He is aware that he will not always be here, at Malachi House, but he has enjoyed each day and makes the most of the days he has. We learned to become better gardeners and better friends because of Bobby.
