"No," Annie said adamantly, while reaching over to pick up the blow dryer.
"Hmm...do you want me to keep drying your hair?"
Big smile.
"Okay."
Annie turned around again with her back to me and waited for me to start brushing and drying her hair again.
"Wow," I thought. "It's been three and a half years since we've shared this much communication!"
Since the brain injury, she has been mostly passive, and only says "No, no, no," or expresses any kind of preference when she's mad, hurt, or after you've waited for many minutes for her to respond. And, it isn't unusual for you to wonder if she's really saying what you think she may have said...or not.
Today was different. It was immediate, appropriate, and clear. And she was happy when I immediately, appropriately and clearly understood what she wanted. I think I could get used to this.
I guess sometimes answers to prayer just kind of sneak up on you when you least expect it.
Jean
Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. John 16:24
4 comments:
How cool is that!?
I'm praying for more sneaky answers...
pam
WOW and Praise the Lord.
Especially because it's her hair - which has been a struggle every day.
Hmmmm...I wonder if she's 'hot' like we "women of a certain age" and just likes the cool air of the blow dryer?
Awesome, Jean. You know what? When I worked in the rehab hospital (with adult neuro patients), I would often give "manicures" to ladies with communication issues. Regardless of our ability to express ourselves, I think we want to feel pretty and cared for--and you know what? When people go to the beauty salon, they usually talk, no? It was a nice way to gently start building rapport.
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