Obediently, we pulled out a recycled bottle filled with "esencia". This is brewed coffee essence which they keep in a jar and is used to prepare "cafe con leche" by putting a little into hot milk. It is a luxury most don't have.
Next we pulled out a large can of local tuna.
Next some homemade twisted bread and several homemade cookies.
The last item was a bag of homegrown coffee which he had roasted and ground This he was most pleased with...How did he know we would be too?
His grin became a smile when he saw our gratitude for the gifts. He squared off his shoulders communicating that he felt pleased with his gifts and our acceptance of them.
This was on Monday. You see on Friday he had come into the clinic to see Paul and discuss his constant and severe low back pain. Upon examination Paul recommended a special injection. The procedure here is that patients go purchase the medication and the doctor applies it. There are few supplies available in the clinic and besides this medication costs a day's wage. He indicated he did not have the money and would not be able to purchase it. Knowing how much it might help him, we sent for the medicine and made a gift of it to him.
His gratitude touched us and I was personally reminded of seeing such acts of gratitude expressed to our parents in Cuba by people they had helped. Memories flooded and I am again filled with gratitude for my family and for the wonderful life lessons we received under their care and guidance.
We are grateful to God for this opportunity and for His direction for our lives.
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