The ability to look passed one’s own needs and desires in order to help others reach theirs is a beautifully rare quality. It’s a quality that humanity still needs, despite our strength to overcome all odds.
It’s perhaps even more beautiful and rare when the tables are turned–when we’re suddenly the ones in need after lifting others up. It’s beautiful to see who comes to your doorstep–and that’s exactly what happened to Julius Gaines.
According to Upworthy.com, the 83- year-old has spent most of his life as a psychologist at the Berkley school district–helping students find good, healthy ways to display and process their emotions during difficult times. He says the best part of his job isn’t the fact he’s well-known at the school district and in his community, but just being there when he’s needed.
“I just wanted to be helpful,” he tells Upworthy. And he was–working long hours even when his schedule was clear. However, after suffering a massive stroke, Gaines quickly found that he was no longer the helpful man others once leaned upon. He found that he couldn’t even help himself anymore.
He was the one who needed help this time, and he recognized that fact. That’s when Meals on Wheels stepped in.
The organization decided to give back to Gaines after getting word of all he has done for his community. His health has since deteriorated to the point where he now fully relies on their services to live his day-to-day life.
In the video above, Gaines explains what his life is like now:
“When Meals on Wheels started, I was on the other end of the stick, so to speak.”
The last part of his explanation truly tugged at my soul, and I think it sends a strong message about the moment when humanity reaches out to help its fellow man: “Suddenly I realized I was there, where all those other people [once] were. ”
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Photo Credit: YouTube
That has got to be a difficult transition to go through, from always being the one to help others, to suddenly being the one who needs help. He truly wanted to care and help others, working full hours when his schedule was clear. Wow! Wish more people would emulate his humanity.