Loneliness is the most terrible poverty.
Mother Teresa
There is a young college woman who has grown very dear to my heart. She is poetic, quick humored, brilliant, compassionate and beautiful ... none of which does she acknowledge. In spite of her college requirements and athletic commitments, Maddie always seems to find ways to be helping others. She casually mentioned the other day her latest adventure. She is volunteering at a shelter for the homeless where there is a foot clinic. While wearing gloves, she washes and massages these homeless feet. She commented upon the outward physical and marginal emotional changes generated by her humble actions.
As a child, my father randomly rubbed my feet as he mindlessly watched television. The memory of these occasions gifted me not only with attention and affection, but pure physical relaxation. As an adult, I loved rubbing the feet of my children from infancy through adulthood. My foot rubs have extended from my kids to grand kids, to friends and those I have encountered along the way.
Over the years my career led me to be a director of differing programs: nursery school, day care center, social services, seniors, and eventually an Alzheimer center. In each setting, I gave foot rubs. No matter what the age, when I looked into the eyes, I would see a lonely 'child' needing human touch.
Reflexology is the mastering of foot massage, but anyone can rub feet. There is no training necessary or costly tools. Just find some lotion or oil and a small hand towel. You can begin on your own feet and immediately begin to feel the wonderful results. There are many unsuspecting folks to choose from, young and old alike, so get busy. Think of my dear friend Maddie while you bring some needed tenderness into the lives of others.
As a child, my father randomly rubbed my feet as he mindlessly watched television. The memory of these occasions gifted me not only with attention and affection, but pure physical relaxation. As an adult, I loved rubbing the feet of my children from infancy through adulthood. My foot rubs have extended from my kids to grand kids, to friends and those I have encountered along the way.
Over the years my career led me to be a director of differing programs: nursery school, day care center, social services, seniors, and eventually an Alzheimer center. In each setting, I gave foot rubs. No matter what the age, when I looked into the eyes, I would see a lonely 'child' needing human touch.
Reflexology is the mastering of foot massage, but anyone can rub feet. There is no training necessary or costly tools. Just find some lotion or oil and a small hand towel. You can begin on your own feet and immediately begin to feel the wonderful results. There are many unsuspecting folks to choose from, young and old alike, so get busy. Think of my dear friend Maddie while you bring some needed tenderness into the lives of others.
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