After retiring from a 50-year career in social services, Paul Jenkison is spending his retirement travelling across Canada and offering free listening sessions to people who may be feeling lonely or overwhelmed.

His simple message is, “You talk. I’ll listen.” Jenkison’s sessions are completely free, with no cost and no expectations, and are simply his way of giving back and helping others feel heard and less alone. After losing his wife of 45 years and his daughter, the Abbotsford senior had to rebuild his life. Instead of giving in to sadness, Paul chose to focus on love and living fully.

After more than 40 years as a social worker and 71 years of life experience, he believes how people respond to hardship is a choice. Inspired by his granddaughter, who told him to remind others they are not alone, Paul decided to volunteer his time and help support people who are struggling. For the past six months, he has set up a sign in public places that reads, “You are not alone. I will listen,” and invites people to stop and share their stories without judgment or shame. He calls these moments “Listening Opportunities” and has travelled across Canada, stopping about 50 times and listening to more than 800 people.

Paul believes you cannot truly love your neighbour unless you take the time to know them, and through his journey, he has learned that most people are kind and want to help. As he continues travelling across British Columbia, then to the northern territories and Newfoundland and Labrador, he hopes others will be inspired to turn their own pain into purpose by taking even one small step towards love, hope, and kindness.

Source: Adam Sawatsky, CTV News