When I started my civil service at a retirement home, I just wanted easy hours. I never expected to form real connections—especially not with people like Mr. Reinhardt. For 18 months, I learned how to care for others, and in return, I got stories, wisdom, and unexpected friendships.Months later, my old friend Leo called. His grandfather—Mr. Reinhardt—had taken a fall and refused to move into a home. Leo asked if I’d help him learn how to care for him. I agreed,
of course. Mr. Reinhardt had once called me his fifth grandson.For six months, we visited regularly. Helped with daily tasks. Laughed. Listened. And then—he was gone. A stroke took him quietly.At the will reading, Leo and I sat among impatient relatives expecting their windfall. Instead,