Being There on Christmas

Offering Hope

Back before automation, back when we were actually spinning the disks, I had an experience that helped me understand the value of the personal interaction radio offers.

I often worked holiday shifts, filling in for staff who wanted time with their families. On one particular shift on Christmas Eve or Christmas Night, I got a call from somebody who was having difficulties. The holidays can easily amplify loneliness among individuals going through tough emotional times.

We spoke on the phone for about 20 minutes. I listened mostly. Finally, he said he was doing a little better, but asked if he could call back later that night. I assured him he could. 

After I got off the phone with him, I called my pastor. I asked him if he thought he might call back. He said, "probably not." Listening was going to be the best thing I could offer. I was a voice in the night. He was able to reach out and connect when he needed it.

 I’m not sure what happened to him.

Because we were not automated, we were there when he needed us to be. In a way the live presence eliminated a barrier between the listener and the station. I like to think that connection was valuable for both of us.

The song I was playing just before he called, "I'll Never Be the Same."