What’s the best cure for a bout of loneliness? Apparently, its pasta.
Last week the State Police in Rome responded to a call about a domestic disturbance and were met by a distressed elderly couple who were in tears. Instead of filing a report, the police got to work, whipping up a simple pasta meal using butter and cheese, and settling in to socialise with the couple.
Jole, 84, and her husband Michele, 94, had become distressed after seeing a news story about abused children on TV. According to the police, the couple, who have been married for almost 70 years, rarely have visitors and generally feel very lonely and isolated. The TV keeps them company, but on this occasion, it offered little comfort.
A Facebook post by Rome police says: “There are two lonely souls that need reassuring. Jole and Michele love each other. But when loneliness is a burden on the heart, it can happen that they lose hope. It can happen, like this time, when their despair makes them scream so loud that eventually, someone calls the State Police.”
This lovely, poetic post has been shared almost 25,000 times on social media.
Among all of the devastating news from around the world, it’s heartening to see such a display of human kindness. This story serves as a reminder that there is still good in the world. It also shows how the police can go beyond the call of duty and act with generosity and compassion; a lesson we can all take on board.
If you’re feeling lonely or distressed and you need support, talk to your GP or contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Related articles:
The physical effects of loneliness
Treating depression naturally
What are the benefits of meditation?
