When We Become Angels for Others

It was the mid 1980s and my husband and I lived in London, England.

We acquired a flat in Ealing Common and I volunteered at the Ismaili Centre.

This was the place with museums and restaurants to explore the city life.

I was walking across the streets and a delivery motorcycle carrier was not uncommon in this hub where corporate offices existed and the main bus and tube (subway) lines were taken.

Where I worked was a tourist attraction for all kinds of dignitaries who knew the Aga Khan. He came from a lineage of Islamic Leaders called the Shia Ismailis and a mosque was constructed with beautiful Arabic influences and design.

I was the one to type the room schedule, greet and direct folks, answer and transfer calls on the switchboard and send global telexes at special occasions around the world and train the gal on the word processor. I worked with the London liaison with His Highness and she trusted me immensely. I knew because I felt a trust and comfort form her. Her eyes smiled at me when she saw me as if she were to say: "Aww finally someone." She began to show me private pictures of dignitaries and special functions with leaders around the world. I was happy for her and she knew was true in what I said.

She told me:"You know so many people are jealous of me and try to fake closeness to get information about our religious leader but you are different." I told her: "Your job is an honor and responsibility and to please take care of yourself as well."

At times the carriers would speed up full speed to make time and at the crosswalk I wanted to cross and cautiously waited for them if they picked up speed to make their deliveries.

One day I was crossing the crosswalk and a mother and young boy she held by his hand to cross. She didn't see the courier picked up speed. I then unusually shouted to alarm them: "No! 'I grabbed his hand pulled him back and she followed away from danger. It was a close call because the tire marks grazed my pantyhose (Yes those days you wore pantyhose.) from the side of the wheel. He actually had no time to stop and had the "Oh no!" expression. The mother thanked me for saving her son's life. I told her it was no problem. I went to work and gathered myself up to do my duties for the community. It was a day of blessings. I helped someone and I didn't lose my leg.