A Heartfelt Tribute: A Retired Judge's Gift to His Community

For 66 years, 94-year-old retired Judge Keith Davidson lived with his wife, Evy, until she passed away a few months ago from cancer. "It's not easy to find yourself completely alone after so many years together," says Davidson, a resident of Minnesota. "You just can't imagine what it's like. You cry a lot, and the loneliness is unbearable."

The pool in Davidson's backyard

But unlike many in his situation, Keith refused to let loneliness overtake his innate joy. "I sat with myself, thinking of how I could use the money left in my savings in a way that would bring me a bit more happiness, a sense of togetherness, and also be in memory of my wife."

So what solution did he find?

"I remembered that our town doesn’t have a public pool for kids, and I decided that’s what I would create in my backyard. I hired a small construction company and began preparing the ground for the project."

Once the work was completed, Keith sent out official invitations to all the neighborhood children, inviting them to enjoy the new pool for free. "Keith’s pool is the best thing to happen to this neighborhood in a long time," say excited residents. "Finally, our children have a place to swim."

And what about Keith himself? "I’m no longer sitting alone, staring at the walls and crying a lot. I’m so happy about the idea that every day a new group of kids comes to keep me company. Even now, when the pool isn't active, my new 'friends' regularly come to visit me and check on me. It warms my heart immensely," Keith added, noting that there's no better act than giving, no matter to whom. "There are so many people in need in the world, and sometimes even a small smile can bring a person back to life."

Translated from English: Shira Cohen