We met with our residents for the third time today…

…and Dorothy did not want to see Sally or I.

…

She said she didn’t want to see anyone today….

…

…

While I don’t take it personally, I’m starting to get a little impatient.

During our reflection last time, I heard from the other members of the Justice Walking group about their residents. I heard about the interesting conversations some of them had, how one resident was full of life and loved to tell jokes, and even how one of our members brought in his guitar to play on after having heard his resident say how much he liked music.

So far, the only thing I’ve done with Dorothy is heard a little about her family, sat in the room while she slept, and was told she didn’t want to see anyone but family.

I’m starting to get a little fed up. Of course, no one can prepare for these kinds of things, but so far I don’t think I’ve learned anything from this experience. I felt initially that this would be a good experience for me since I’ve never done anything like this before, but now I feel like I’m missing out on lessons and experiences other people seem to be having.

And of course, challenges do arise. You have to adapt to situations sometimes. But if I don’t learn anything in the process, what good is it? So far I think the only thing I’ve learned is the best place to find a chair in the facility when those in the room are scarce.

I’m frustrated. I’m hoping next time will go better, but that won’t be for another two weeks. By then Dorothy may not even remember who we are.