The unspoken language

A few months ago I opened the building door (that was slightly ajar) and let it slam shut behind me as I went out to run an errand.  When I returned I noticed an older grandfather that lives on our floor with his wife, son, and daughter in law milling about outside our building.  This grandfather seems to be of Arabic descent based on his clothes and appearance, but does not speak English.  Through a series of gestures I realized that the building door was left ajar by Gramps so he could let himself back in and I had left him stuck outside.  He didn't seem the least bit concerned and after I let him in he graciously patted me on the back, thanking me. 

After that incident I occasionally would pass Gramps in the hall and he would smile and nod his head ever so slightly.  The other night the HyWy and I were coming in the building and he was right behind us.  As the three of us entered the elevator we all exchanged smiles and this being the HyWy's first interaction she didn't really know about the language barrier so she instinctively asked how he was doing.  As a sidenote it is worth mentioning that the HyWy loves grandparents especially ones that remind her of her own grandparents (ie foreign, not necessarily fluent in English, etc.).  Back in the elevator Gramps looked at both of us and smiled.  He pointed at me then at the HyWy as if asking whether we were married.  We both nodded our heads in confirmation.  Then he looked at the HyWy, gave a subtle smile, one thumb up, and looked at me obviously telling me what a wonderful wife I have found:).  Then out of nowhere he reached out and gave me a hug.  I was completely surprised beaming with an ear to ear smile. 

Through both interactions the thing that stands out in my mind is while Gramps' smile was subtle his eyes spoke volumes.  He also speaks through gestures, back pats, and other non verbal means.  All this was summed up eloquently and simply by the HyWy's statement when we entered the apartment, which also led to the post's title...the unspoken language is so beautiful and powerful.