This is such a special story! It is a beautiful example of what @vangalov has written about..
https://steemit.com/steemit/@vangelov/ecotrain-speaks-what-is-the-greatest-gift-you-ever-gave-or-could-give-by-vangelov

Sometimes the greatest gift is listening, silence, understanding and compassion.

Wonderful what you did for him, and you carry that amazing feeling forever too! Yes pain is a gift that urges us to grow.. It is necessary, as a wise man put it:

"Pleasure is a moment between two pains!"
;-)

Thanks so much for sharing this.. beautiful and personal story!