I am covered in embarrassment.I went over to visit Lizzie, as I was very excited and wanted to tell her about my award. I didn't realise that she's had a death in the family and that they are still grieving. I made my apologies, and then explained why I had called unexpectedly.
It reminded me of the time I'd called at a lovely old cottage near Malmesbury to offer some help to a gentleman. The district nurse had referred him to social services a few weeks previously. I arrived at the appointed time in order to assess his needs for help from the Home Care Service. I was greeted at the door by a very homely lady, gave my name and then invited in. She insisted on giving me a cup of tea and proffered a sandwich. This was pretty unusual. But when she asked whether I was friend or family I explained to her why was there. She thought that I was one of the mourners arrived to attend the old gentleman's funeral. She was a kindly neighbour; there to prepare the tea in advance as his family didn't live in the locality. I'm glad that I was able to take my leave before the family did return. I was rather embarrassed. And annoyed the district nurse had not contacted me again to tell me that her referral of a three weeks ago was now no longer necessary.
