Sometimes it is hard to discern what to blog about. Sometimes I go through a dark and dry spell in which I feel “apart” from our Lord. Calling it “writer’s block” seems too temporal and secular for the path I have chosen for my life. But it is true that it often is hard to blog with any passion.
However, lately our morning prayer before opening has been “flowing” better for me, and I think the dry spell is almost over. Here are a couple of non-materialistic interactions I have had lately at Hope House:
· A longtime client (and friend) is having a difficult time with something from his past causing him emotional pain. He spends time with myself and with Bonnie venting his anguish and anger. When I tell him I wish I could help, he states that I do—by listening.
· A client from long ago makes a new connection with me. We had a very serious “not ok” relationship in the past. Back then she was homeless and high. Now she is clean and sober and housed. I almost didn’t recognize her, and we came together to heal our relationship. I’m so proud of her and all she has done to heal herself
· A young woman who painfully reminds me of someone I know with the same problems, often comes in to try to get some clarity about life and her challenges. We listen, offer common sense advice and off she goes.
These are just a few examples of other ways that Hope House and the Hope House Community offers non-material assistance. Sometimes just knowing that someone will listen, sympathize and even “mother” them a little goes a long way. I like to think that we are helping in the moment, where they are and what they need at that time.
Hope House is not just “stuff”. It is also a haven for those who need it.
