Penny for your thoughts?
Have you ever stumbled upon a random penny? Do you know about the concept of “pennies from heaven”? If not, let me share my story. I find pennies all the time—years’ worth of them. My Nana used to tell me that these are pennies from heaven, left by our family, loved ones, and guardian angels watching over us. Each penny is a reassuring sign that we are loved and protected. Throughout the years, I’ve discovered hundreds of these small tokens, each time feeling a profound sense of warmth and reassurance.
Fast forward to today. I work as a Health Coach, visiting people in their homes. Some are battling severe illnesses, others are grappling with deep depression, and many are dealing with a combination of both. I make it my mission to genuinely listen and understand their struggles. Each day proves fulfilling, but today was special.
As I approached a patient’s apartment, I spotted a lone penny on the ground. Without hesitation, I picked it up and slipped it into my pocket. Little did I know, this small coin would play a significant role in my day. The patient, a woman with fragile health, was already sipping on wine when I arrived at 10 am. Her story unfolded, revealing a heart-wrenching journey marked by the loss of several family members, including her own daughter.
She shared tales of despair and sadness, tears flowing freely. I found myself swept up in her emotional narrative, shedding a few tears of my own. Toward the end of our visit, I remembered the penny in my pocket. Pulling it out, I asked her if she knew about “pennies from heaven.” She nodded, having heard a story about it before. I handed her the penny, explaining that I had found it outside her apartment, and it was meant for her, not me. It was a message from her departed loved ones, a sign that they were still with her, offering comfort and love.
As I left her apartment, I couldn’t help but reflect on the emotional exchange. Walking to my car, I looked down and, there it was – another penny. This time, I felt it was meant for me. A silent acknowledgment from her departed loved ones, expressing gratitude for caring about her. In that moment, the cyclical dance of finding and giving pennies took on a profound and interconnected meaning.
Find a penny, give a penny, get a penny. It can be that simple.
The Dish by Deni 