Relationships

I was doing some homework yesterday when one of my housemates came knocking and crying into my room yesterday- eyes red and puffy, wrapped in a blanket, tissues in hand. She was very close to her grandpa and he had suddenly passed away that night.

My first reaction- I was stunned because as a house, I felt as if we never had that bond or comfort of knowing each other- (heck, it’s been 3 weeks of school and we never even had a house meeting, and it’s extremely rare that all 4 of us are all home at the same time)…yet at the same time, relieved because  it was a breakthrough in our house relationships, even if it meant seeing each other at our worst for the first time. She was embarrassed, and kept telling me, “I’m sorry I’m bothering you!” in between tissues. I just smiled and comforted her, hoping that I could only be a source of blessing and comfort in her life and to made sure she knew that I was available.

It always seems awkward when you’re in that position- what am I even supposed to say? But I remembered that she made the effort to come into my room, and probably wouldn’t have done so if she didn’t need someone to just sit there and listen. I ended up just asking her questions, and she told me her happy memories or the funny things he would say to her. One of my other housemates came home later, and we ended up making hot tea and chatting for a little.

I felt as if I didn’t have to do much, but watching her be strong and encouraged is just enough for me.