No matter what a person’s age or stage of life may be, it’s common for nearly every one of us to sometimes feel self-conscious about one or more of our physical characteristics. Thankfully, there are special people that make a point of letting those around them know how beautiful they truly are by getting them to see themselves in a brand new light. One of these caring and inspiring individuals is Brandalyn Mae Porter. This charming woman works in a nursing home located in Texas. She has a unique gift for helping the nursing home residents to feel good about themselves, such as the woman highlighted in the following touching true story.
Some of the most discouraged residents found in our nursing homes can often be the newcomers. There people are often going through a very challenging time as they adjust to their new, unfamiliar surroundings. When Brandalyn met with this resident who had recently arrived, she wanted to make her feel especially welcome. She offered to paint the woman’s fingernails, and the conversation that followed most likely made this resident’s whole day.
When Brandalyn asked the lady what color of nail polish she would like to have painted on her nails, the woman’s response was a bit surprising. Normally the residents would ask Brandalyn to use bright, happy nail polish colors on their nails. But this new resident simply asked that her nails be painted with clear nail polish. When Brandalyn asked her why she chose to have clear polish put on her nails, the woman’s response was somewhat heartbreaking. She looked up at Brandalyn and said, “My hands are ugly, I don’t want to draw attention to them.”
Brandalyn’s heart was moved by this unexpected admission of self-consciousness. She wanted so much for this precious woman to know how lovely she actually was in the eyes of those around her. When Brandalyn replied, she chose her words with care and great tact. She said, “Your hands tell the story of your life They tell the story of love, of care, and adventures. These hands have touched and held things that most people can only wish to one day.”
Immediately, the woman’s spirits were lifted. Right away, she changed her mind about having clear polish put on her nails, and instead she chose a pretty pink color for Brandalyn to use. Rather than be ashamed about the appearance of her hands, this nursing home resident learned that they could be a source of pride and joy emanating from a rich, full life.
Many of us struggle on a regular basis with comparing our looks or other aspects of our being with those around us. Thanks to sensitive and caring people like Brandalyn Mae Porter, we can be reminded that we each have intrinsic value. As unique individuals, we all have an important role to play in the lives of those within our sphere of influence. Another important lesson from this story is that elderly among us are not to be overlooked, but especially cherished for the years of life experience that they can share with others.
This story can serve as both an inspiration and a reminder to each one of us to look for ways we can make a difference in the lives of hurting people all around us. If you were moved by this touching story about how one woman’s fresh perspective brought hope and light to someone who needed a word of encouragement, share this story with your friends and family on Facebook! You’ll likely put a smile on their face and brighten their whole day.