I know it’s
been awhile since I last blogged—we have been super busy at Hope House! Sometimes
so much is happening that while I may tell myself in the moment “blog this!” I completely
forget by the time I get to my computer for some quiet time. One recurring
business is the “new” Hope House we are hoping to build next year. Lots of time
and energy, presentations and meetings have gone into this lately and I have
been so excited at the progress being made. So imagine my distress when I hear
some in leadership roles express that we may have to wait another year to
actually do this. I can’t express my disappointment at this lack of energy—my soul
feels wounded somehow, but I am putting my faith in the only sure thing I know—prayer.
I am not giving up on a new Hope House next year and neither is God. In the
meantime, I am also focusing my thoughts on the wonderful memories this place
has given me. When I think of Hope House, this is what I think of:
·
Sunny
spring and summer days like today---clients sitting out front, chatting while
waiting for us to open. Staff bustling around, getting everything stocked and
ready. Windows open and the sound of birds singing.
·
And
conversely, cold, dark winter days, wind blowing and clients coming in
shivering, grateful for the hot coffee and fresh cookies and warmth. It’s
rewarding to offer warm hats, gloves and blankets during these times.
·
The
sound of babies “talking”, toddlers running and moms chatting in our waiting
room. When you peek out there, children are coloring, someone is reading a book
to the kids and everyone has a cookie in their hand!
·
From
my office, I often hear the staff offering to search for items that our clients
are in need of, running upstairs and out to our shed to try to locate a
blanket, some socks or a coat. Our staff have also been known to purchase
something for a particular person that they know is in need of it.
·
The
faces of the Assumption school children joyfully passing cans of food hand to
hand from the church to our shed each year at Thanksgiving. Even when it is
cold and windy, they smile and have fun with it.
·
The
homeless men and women who have found a “family” here at Hope House. The few we
worry most about—my adopted “sons”!! When they’re sick, when we haven’t seen them
for a while—I worry, and pray and they always come back!
·
Then
there is Christmas---the incredible generosity of the families, organizations
and businesses that “adopt” a Hope House family and make a Christmas for them. I
wish I could show everyone the eyes of the children who see the boxe(s) of
gifts to take home!
·
Clients
who connect here—we have one couple who met here and are now married! I love
chatting with my clients, watching their children grow, celebrating their victories
and praying for their sorrows.
·
My
volunteers---I cannot say enough about the wonderful people who choose to spend
time here each week, reaching out with such love and compassion! They are
amazing and always step up when needed, serve with love and keep smiles on their
faces. I love each and every one of them!
So, wounded
soul aside, I will keep up the good fight, keep praying and keep enjoying the
special blessing this place is in my life.
Thank you,
God, for Hope House.
