Every crisis I have ever had has brought moments of intense and unexpectedly wonderful connection with people. Eight years ago, my mom developed Alzheimer’s.  Seven hundred dollars worth of water spilled onto her lawn, a fridge filled with a fascinating collection of mold that she refused to let me throw out, and all manner of misadventures would not drive her out of her house. I braced myself for a novel disaster every time I visited. My one solace was that I often ran into her next door neighbours who were kind and willing to help. One of the gifts they gave me during our over-the-fence chats were these purple irises.Every time they bloom I remember their kindness. The smallest thing given at a time of need means so much for so long.