Inspiration

Listening Beyond Words

Chaplain Art Rasch

Often, when people learn that I am a Hospice Chaplain, they respond, “Wow; that must be hard.” Sometimes it is. But part of my answer, for myself, includes a very old gentleman, confined to a wheel chair. He cannot speak. And he is slowly losing strength. Yet he communicates with his eyes and by shaking his head and with his smile. Most times when I visit him and it is time to go, he will take my hand in his – and kiss it. He kisses my hand, his way of saying “Thank you.”

I know I am appreciated by my Lord, my family and a bunch of friends. But this elderly child of God touches me deeply. He reminds me that to love, to be present, to listen to someone who cannot speak, are great gifts.

I am his chaplain...He is my blessing.