A Story from L'Arche: A Bond of Friendship

By Brian Smith

A Bond of Friendship

Ellen is one of my closest friends in L'Arche. In fact, periodically over the years when I have thought about moving on, her friendship has been one of the important factors in my decision to stay. One of the things that we have in common, and that touches me especially about Ellen is a love for animals. Ellen is particularly gifted with them. Dogs and cats seem to know that she likes them and they respond to her even when they might ignore others. When I wanted to adopt a cat from the local SPCA, I took Ellen with me and watched which cat came to her. A little black-and-white one singled her out quite quickly. This little cat, who has lived with me now for three years, is an important part of the friendship Ellen and I share. We often get together at my place so that Ellen and Hillary, the cat, can have a visit.


- Beth Porter