In a time when it’s so easy to feel isolated, all of us need to feel seen and heard. For these two neighbors, they only had the latter, but it’s still a story that will have you reaching for the tissues.
Back in January, Giorgio Lo Porto posted a video on TikTok about his new neighbor – and their unbelievable piano talent! The post began a series of clips over the next month that showed the duo’s relationship playing out in the form of two pianos separated by one wall.
Giorgio started their fated friendship by writing a note to his neighbor, complimenting the stranger on their incredible skill and requesting a song: the classic “My Heart Will Go On” by Céline Dion.
The next day, the “Titanic” anthem burst through the wall like clockwork, and Giorgio was both touched and overjoyed.
Their pen pal exchanges soon turned into piano duets through the wall, where each of them would bounce melodies off the other, creating gorgeous music together.
They continued doing their piano duets every weekend around 2 p.m., until Giorgio finally got the chance to meet his mysterious partner face-to-face.
“Well, today I have met my neighbor, and let me tell you, it was better than expected,” Giorgio wrote. “His name is Emil. He is 78 years old, originally from Poland. … He lost his wife in December due to COVID, and all he has left is the piano.”
Giorgio went on to explain that Emil’s reason for playing every weekend at 2 p.m. is because his wife always loved it. Emil was quick to thank Giorgio for giving him company, friendship, and the motivation to keep playing.
That’s when Giorgio added, “I promised that I’ll play with him until he moves out.” And so he did!
Though Emil’s time in this apartment complex was short, as it was just a temporary accommodation for him until his house sold, the bond these complete strangers created throughout their weekend meetups became a memory to last a lifetime.
After the pair said their goodbyes, Giorgio dedicated an Instagram post to Emil, saying, “This weekend I drafted an original song, which I called ‘Emil.’ It’s about fighting loneliness, being there for each other, and about not taking anything for granted.”
It’s simple, heartwarming stories like this one that remind us of the power of togetherness. You never know how one small act of kindness might end up being the one thing someone needs the most!
Watch their moving friendship play out in the video below, and share the goodness with someone who could use a smile.
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