Big Family “Adopts” Lonely 82-Yr-Old Neighbor As Their Grandpa

When the Carabellos moved their large family into a new home in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, they worried about how their neighbors would react.

15:31 28/09/2024

However, not only did they make friends with other residents, but they also gained a family member. Paul Callahan, an 82-year-old widower from across the street, was eager to lend the new homeowners a hand with any home improvement projects. Soon, he became a permanent fixture in their lives.

“The kids run up to him like that’s their grandfather,” Sharaine, the children’s mother, told USA Today. “Paul is definitely a family member. He’s no longer considered a neighbor.”

Not only does Paul drop by to help out with the kids on a near-daily basis, he’s also welcome at every gathering and celebration. He says he’s glad that he reached out and got to know his neighbors.

“If you don’t take a chance, you may miss a friend,” Paul said.

Watch the video below to get a glimpse into this adorably family dynamic!

“He was coming over with tools. He’d bring screwdrivers and teach Wilson how to fix up the garage, and Wilson followed all his advice,” Sharaine shared in an interview. Spending time together strengthened the connection and the family began inviting him to gatherings, cookouts and simple everyday things, like a cup of coffee or a quick catch-up session on the porch.

The Caraballo children took a special liking to Paul – they were captivated by the stories from his life and his good sense of humor. Feeling his genuine interest and affection towards them, the children were the first ones to embrace him as a beloved honorary grandfather. “The kids run up to him like that’s their grandfather. Paul is definitely a family member. He’s no longer considered a neighbor,” Sharaine noted the special connection.

Friendships like these do not happen on their own – it requires courage to go and say “hi” to someone and willingness to get to know them. Paul has a wise perspective on building friendships: “You get many chances to talk to people. If you don’t take a chance, you may miss a friend.” That’s a great quote to remember next time you see someone interesting you’d like to be friends with.

However, soon a lovely elderly man named Paul showed up with a ladder and offered help sprucing up the house

Paul also values kindness and notes the importance of helping people out: “It doesn’t hurt to be nice. That’s the other thing, it costs you nothing, but a lot of times, you get a better return.” Kindness is like seeds of wildflowers – if you sow them generously, one day you will have a beautiful meadow full of colors. The more kindness you send into the world, the better you feel, remembering the genuine smiles of people you helped.

The 82-year-old embraced his new neighbors and delighted in the company of children, who definitely keep him on his toes. Elderly people who are alone often fear going out and speaking to young ones, fearing they will think them boring or old-fashioned. If only they knew how fascinating their stories sound or how crucial their wisdom can be in difficult situations. Paul was willing to open his heart and got a new family in return.