One day, my colleague in the hospital told me that an elderly man who was suffering from cancer in our hospital has not eaten a full meal for several days.

Each time, he only took a mouthful or two. He was depressed because his family has not visited him for some time.  

My first thought was, “How is he going to survive if he doesn’t have his meals?” Not sure what I could do, I thought I would nevertheless go and see him, and try to make him feel better by just listening to him.    

That evening, I went to see him. His eyes bulged and he looked a sorrowful sight. I asked him, “Uncle, why don’t you eat your food?” He replied, “My family has not come to see me for some time.” Then, he kept silent for a long time.  

I tried to console him, “They must be very busy with their work. Once they have the time, I’m sure they will come.”   I sat with him for some time, not really knowing what more to say.  

Finally, I blurted out these words, “Uncle, I will not go home until you have eaten your meal.”   To my surprise, he replied graciously, “Alright, I will take my food now.” And I helped feed him.

That evening, he had a full meal.   He began to open up and talk, and occasionally even smiled. I was happy to be able to bring him cheer.  

I went to see him again many times after that day. His elder brother subsequently visited him frequently too. He was much happier.   It’s a little episode where in trying to bring cheer to another, I myself received joy in return.