Leslie is an urban explorer who finds and photographs
abandoned buildings in Ontario, Canada. She calls herself the “Tourist” and
during one of her excursions in 2015 she stopped in front of a house that stole
her heart. She thought it was empty, but when she stepped inside she was
surprised to find a man living in it. She shared her story on Instagram, and
when you read it you’ll be as amazed as Leslie was by the unexpected friendship
she found.
“This is Lawrence. He lives in a house I had believed to be
abandoned. The driveway is overgrown, the roof is caving in and the interior
would lead anyone to believe this land had been deserted. I found him in the
living room. He has a hard time getting around so he spends most of his time in
there. Alone.”
“He is missing his right eye and has cataracts infecting the
left. Even after noticing a stranger essentially helping themselves to his life
he was nothing but sweet and kind to me. He was even nice enough to let me take
his picture which I will always treasure.
“He is a beautiful soul and I plan on visiting him a lot.
I’m posting this picture in hopes that it will inspire at least one person to
reach out to someone they may have lost contact with or perhaps just forgot
about. These old souls are still full of life and I feel blessed to have met
this one.
“The house that stole my heart – this is the exterior of my
new friends home. Tonight we sat outside and enjoyed the beautiful evening. He
explained to me how his injuries started in 2000 when a bull fractured his hip.
He told me of his brothers illness and how they have lost touch.”
“He said I was a blessing to him. I told him I couldn’t put
into words what he means to me.”
“Tonight was the first of what will be many dinner dates
with my new friend. Over the course of 3 hours we ate and drank and laughed. I
was fortunate enough to hear about his life.. His struggles and his triumphs.
This truly was one of the best experiences of my life &
I can’t wait to share another meal with such a gentle soul.”
“An update on my friend – he is in good spirits and is very
happy to have some room in his home. I’ve managed to remove his old fridge,
stove, and chest freezer, along with numerous bags of garbage and other
content. This was all made possible by a very generous company and a few
awesome boys with big hearts and strong lower backs. I can’t thank everyone
enough for their support and generosity during this period in my life – and in
his. He is beyond grateful, not just to me. He knows you are all following his
story :)”
“After a few recent visits to the doctors, it’s apparent
that his health is declining, rapidly. These may be the last few months I have
with my friend and I plan to make them as comfortable and enjoyable for him as
possible. He’s informed me of his funeral arrangements and has asked me to be
there. I told him I wouldn’t have it any other way.
“He shared something with me that will stay with me forever.
He said the day I showed up was the best day of his life. As self righteous as
I feel writing that, I understand how he feels. The best day of my life was
when I met him. He gave me the chance to really do something for someone – an
act of kindness with no expectation of reward. It’s a rare opportunity and I’m
glad I was able to accept the challenge.
“A few weeks ago my friend asked if I would go to a church
BBQ with him … Our first outing!!! I was so happy he had asked me and couldn’t
wait to go. Tonight was our dinner date … The food was amazing .. Provided by
the local farmers in the neighbourhood and way too much pie baked by all their
lovely wives. It was great to see him out of the house and around the people
he’s known his whole life.”
“Driving home tonight I couldn’t help but think to myself
how lucky I am to have this opportunity to be a part of such a wonderful
persons life. My friend is truly a blessing.”
“Well it’s been a while since I’ve posted anything about
this handsome fella so I figured I’d give everyone following his story an
update. After a prolonged stay at two different hospitals after his last
stroke, Lawrence is now living at a local retirement home and doing much
better. He’s safe and warm and seems to be fairly happy to be around some new
people, although I know he misses home.
“I bring my dog Violet with me when I go for my visits, and
she has now become a favorite around the home and she seems to enjoy herself
thoroughly (indulging in yet another cookie as seen above). His birthday is
coming up shortly (Valentines day) and we can’t wait to celebrate with him,
properly…”
“Happy birthday To this young fella.”
Since meeting Lawrence, their story has gone viral. Leslie
recently stopped by for a visit and read out some of the positive comments and
letters she’s received.
“He’s very happy to have some new friends following his
story and his smile grew with each kind post I read to him,” she said. “We both
thank you for your beautiful words and thoughts.”
Share
this heartwarming story with your family and friends!
Source : Reshare Worthy