“Communication leads to community, that is, to understanding, intimacy and mutual valuing.” – Rolo May
In the waiting room of the physical therapy clinic, I watched as a woman in a wheel chair was called to proceed into the therapy area. She began to roll herself forward, then stopped, and turned to speak to her husband. I didn’t hear the conversation, but observed her body language. She shook her head in a very disappointed manner when she noticed he was not beside her, but rather already at the exit door leaving the facility. She returned her gaze in front of her as she navigated slowly and awkwardly down the aisle alone. I felt a sadness for her solitude.
Just moments earlier there was a couple seated by each other, engaged in conversation and enjoying each other’s company. When one was called, the other got up and both proceeded to the appointed area together. Both sets of couples appeared to be in their early 60’s. I was struck by the contrast between the couples. One couple was clearly there as a “couple” fully invested in the well-being of the other. Juxtaposed to this model, was the portrait of the woman in the wheel chair who was left on her own to fend for her self.
It brought to my attention the reality that there are so many lonely people in relationships.
