I am here for you as an emotional crutch.
I am here for you as a listener.
I am here for you as a shoulder to cry on.
I am here for you as a friend.
I am here for you as a hand to hold.
I am here for you as a pick me up.
I am here for you as a cure for your pain.
I am here for you as a light in the dark.
I am here for you as a partner.
I am here for you always and forever.
About the Creator
Keep reading
More stories from Sam Hellier and writers in Humans and other communities.
A smile can make a big difference.
The past year has been such a difficult, life changing time for people all over the world. Every day we hear of how many deaths there has been from Coronavirus and restrictions getting tighter or a family business you have known for years has gone into liquidation. There is no surprise so many people are feeling anxious or depressed. I understand how it feels and I fight my inner demons everyday with the inner strength and belief I eventually found when I needed it most. Throughout this very challenging time of the pandemic, I have had time to think and reflect on my life experience, good and bad. Watching the news and seeing elderly people on their own feeling lonely and struggling to get their essential shopping, I decided to help in any way I can. There is a lady who lives opposite me called Ethel aged Ninety-Seven, registered blind and living on her own. Every week I drop off some milk, bread or whatever is needed and while keeping my distance; wearing a face mask, I have a chat with her. It is amazing how up to date she is with current affairs, has a brilliant sense of humour and not old fashioned as you might expect with a lady of Ninety-Seven. I admit I stereotyped her at first and feel ashamed of myself for doing so. When I turn up for our chat every week and drop off her shopping, you can just see her face light up. It is almost like a big weight has been visibly taken off her shoulders and she can stop worrying and relax. Ethel is always ever so grateful for what I do, calling me a 'saint' and trying to force money onto me, which I never accept, we end up jokingly arguing about it and end up laughing like drunken fools. I look forward to seeing Ethel every week and make sure she has my phone number to chat whenever she wants. I always phone to check with her if she needs anything else as she won't say because she feels like a burden and every time, I tell her 'don't be silly'. I have a friendship for life with Ethel and will always be there for her. It just proves that what you might originally think of somebody who seems tough and unapproachable is a friendly person who needs support or just some company. For me it is so rewarding to see the smile on peoples' faces and the positive change you are making by helping them. I have elderly Grandparents aged Eighty-Nine and Ninety-Two who I also get shopping for and safely visit them for a chat. My Granddad has become more confused recently with places closed and changes to his routine of walking to the Bookies every morning or his club in the evenings. My Grandmother always says that my Granddad seems more upbeat and chatty when I am there, so this makes my Grandmother happy too. They both still live together in a Bungalow, so she notices more often how confused he is getting. I make sure I see them as much as possible if it is safe to do so with how vulnerable they are. But they are also lucky that they have each other's company and family to support them. While there are lonely, elderly people struggling to get through each day with very little support or no help at all. Even a smile can go a long way to making somebody feel better or starting a conversation. I think something positive has come out of this pandemic as people are starting to notice their vulnerable neighbours or those in need and are helping each other a lot more. Therefore, once we have got through this, I think there will be a bigger community spirit to work together for a better future.
By Sam Hellier5 years ago in Humans
At My Wits’ End
Life is about taking out the trash and calling it trash because you have every reason to. It wasn't meant to be linear, they say. But the times you tried to make it straight led to problems, and you didn’t have the tools to put any of it to use. You don't put your right shoes on the right feet; you put the left shoes on the left feet. The grey hardened slab will trip you up anyway.
By Caitlin Charlton3 days ago in Humans
Twelve Killed in Israeli Strikes on Gaza, Including Senior Islamic Jihad Commander
Renewed violence threatens fragile ceasefire as regional tensions rise At least 12 people were reported killed following a series of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) strikes across the Gaza Strip, according to Palestinian health officials and multiple regional reports. Among the dead was said to be a senior commander affiliated with Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), a militant group active in Gaza. The escalation marks one of the deadliest flare-ups in recent weeks and raises concerns about the stability of an already fragile ceasefire. The Israeli military stated that the strikes targeted militants involved in activities that posed an imminent threat to Israeli forces. Palestinian sources, meanwhile, reported that casualties included both combatants and civilians. As is often the case in fast-moving conflict situations, independent verification of all claims remains difficult. Targeted Strikes and Military Objectives According to Israeli officials, the operations were carried out in response to what the IDF described as violations of understandings aimed at reducing hostilities. The military said it had identified armed operatives operating near Israeli positions and took action to neutralize the threat. Among those reportedly killed was a senior Islamic Jihad commander. Israeli sources characterized him as a key figure responsible for coordinating operations and overseeing militant activities. Palestinian Islamic Jihad has not immediately released a detailed statement confirming the extent of its losses, though affiliated channels acknowledged casualties among its members. The IDF maintains that its strikes are focused on militant infrastructure and leadership, arguing that such operations are necessary to prevent attacks on Israeli civilians and soldiers. In past confrontations, Israel has emphasized intelligence-driven targeting aimed at weakening armed groups without escalating into full-scale war. Palestinian Response and Civilian Impact Palestinian officials in Gaza condemned the strikes, describing them as violations of ongoing ceasefire efforts. Health authorities reported that some of the victims were civilians, though full details about identities and affiliations have not been publicly confirmed. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains precarious. Years of conflict, economic restrictions, and infrastructure damage have left the territory vulnerable to disruptions caused by renewed fighting. Each escalation brings additional strain to medical facilities, power systems, and essential services. Local residents described scenes of chaos following the strikes, with emergency responders rushing to affected areas. As with previous rounds of violence, civilians often bear the brunt of sudden military exchanges, particularly in densely populated neighborhoods where militant groups operate alongside residential communities. A Fragile Ceasefire Under Pressure The latest violence comes amid ongoing efforts by regional mediators to maintain calm between Israel and armed factions in Gaza. Though no formal long-term peace agreement is in place, periodic ceasefires have helped limit large-scale confrontations in recent months. However, such arrangements are frequently tested by incidents on the ground. Accusations of ceasefire violations are common, with both sides often presenting sharply different narratives about who initiated hostilities. Even limited exchanges can quickly spiral into broader conflict if not contained. Analysts note that targeted killings of senior militant figures have historically triggered retaliatory responses. Palestinian Islamic Jihad, in particular, has previously launched rocket attacks following the deaths of key leaders. Whether this latest incident leads to renewed rocket fire or broader escalation remains to be seen. The Role of Palestinian Islamic Jihad Palestinian Islamic Jihad is a smaller but highly active militant organization operating in Gaza. Distinct from Hamas, which governs the territory, PIJ maintains its own military wing and command structure. The group has been responsible for rocket launches and other attacks against Israeli targets over the years. Israel considers Islamic Jihad a terrorist organization and has repeatedly targeted its leadership and infrastructure. While Hamas often plays a dominant political and military role in Gaza, PIJ operates independently and sometimes pursues its own agenda, complicating ceasefire arrangements. The reported killing of a senior PIJ commander could significantly affect the group’s operational capacity in the short term. Leadership losses can disrupt coordination and planning. At the same time, such strikes may harden positions and fuel calls for retaliation among militants and supporters. Regional and International Reactions International observers are closely monitoring developments. Past escalations between Israel and Gaza-based groups have drawn concern from neighboring countries and global powers, particularly when civilian casualties are reported. Regional mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, have historically played key roles in de-escalation efforts. Diplomatic channels often intensify following significant incidents in an attempt to prevent wider conflict. Public statements urging restraint are likely to follow if tensions continue to rise. The broader geopolitical environment also shapes the situation. Developments in the West Bank, shifts in Israeli domestic politics, and regional security dynamics can all influence decision-making on both sides. The Broader Pattern of Escalation This latest episode fits into a long-standing pattern of cyclical violence. Targeted strikes, rocket fire, and retaliatory actions have characterized the Israel–Gaza conflict for years. Periods of relative calm are frequently interrupted by sudden flare-ups sparked by specific incidents. Military analysts suggest that both sides often seek limited engagements rather than prolonged war. However, the risk of miscalculation remains high. A strike intended to send a deterrent message can inadvertently trigger a broader confrontation. For civilians living in southern Israel and throughout Gaza, these cycles bring recurring uncertainty. Air raid sirens, emergency alerts, and sudden evacuations have become part of daily life during times of escalation What Comes Next? Whether this incident marks a brief flare-up or the beginning of a larger escalation depends on several factors. The response of Palestinian Islamic Jihad will be critical. If the group launches retaliatory attacks, Israel is likely to respond forcefully, potentially widening the scope of operations. At the same time, diplomatic efforts may intensify to contain the situation. In past crises, swift mediation has prevented further deterioration. For now, the reported deaths of 12 individuals — including a senior militant commander — underscore the volatility of the Gaza front. As both sides assess their next moves, the region stands at another uncertain crossroads. The coming days will reveal whether restraint or retaliation defines the next chapter in a conflict that shows little sign of lasting resolution.
By 😎Baلoch✨.zada😎6 days ago in Humans
📢 Raise Your Voice Thread: 02/19/2026
Our “Raise Your Voice Threads” are hosted most alternating Thursdays at 12PM ET to offer creators more avenues to uncover exceptional stories on Vocal. As we are continuously searching for fresh creators and inspiring stories, this thread provides an opportunity to exchange and discuss the stories that have moved and motivated us on Vocal.
By Raise Your Voice by Vocal3 days ago in Resources
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.