Jeff is a nurturer. For years he has been a devoted partner to Melissa, his girlfriend, and together they have migrated from Florida to California, preferring the open streets to the shelters. A series of losses has taken their home, then their van they were living in, and now their health. Jeff’s foot is infected so badly it’s swollen up huge and he can’t walk on it. Yet, his focus is not on himself, but on gently caring for Melissa’s needs. He is solicitous, making sure she has what she needs. He extends his caring to those around him as he shares his simple snack, and he has a nurturing manner that reminded me of my own father. I prayed with Jeff for his foot, and the next time I saw him the swelling had gone way down and he was able to walk.
