Who is Ben?

Ben represents Willa’s choice to stay in Baltimore and start a new life. He is an old doctor who runs a clinic in his home while volunteering to help immigrants at his local church. He is a single man who lost his spouse, just like Willa, but is pursuing meaning in his life by helping others. He does not see life as separate moments to enjoy, but looks at himself as a small speck on the earth that can only help where he can. Ben is one of the characters that convinces Willa to return to Baltimore and start over.