Sangha of Auspicious Companions

Unlikely Besties: After 97-year-old Man Crashed Into Her Car, They Became Friends

Amidst the metallic crunch of a fender bender, a bond unexpectedly blossomed between Destiny Smith and a 97-year-old stranger, Jim. Jim, having rear-ended Smith’s car, revealed himself to be a man adrift-without insurance, a license, or nearby kin. Concerned for his well-being as he swerved home alone, Smith’s heart tugged at the seams of her own soul. “He’s outlived a lot of his family members. His brother and his wife recently passed away, and they never had children,” Smith shared on social media. “He’s really sweet.” As the unlikely duo unraveled their lives to each other, a promise was forged: Smith would not let Jim navigate the twilight of his life in isolation. Smith began visiting Jim regularly, and also was able to get him nursing assistance from the county. “He is now going to have aides. I spoke with a social worker. It’s all gonna work out for Jim, and I’m so excited, because he’s not gonna be alone anymore,” she vowed. Their connection has become a testament to serendipity’s gentle nudges, where the act of simply caring becomes a lifeline in the face of life’s unexpected odds.

Be The Change

Reach out to a neighbor or person in your community who lives alone and offer to check in on them regularly, help with small tasks, or simply spend time together.