We took those items today and were able to connect with many individuals and this post will simply be my highlights of the two hours we spent at this event.
1) It was cold: First off this is definitely not a complaint. In no way will I ever grumble about standing in the cold for two hours while we are serving those who will have to spend much more time in it than I ever will. I will say though that being cold was a powerful reminder of the life that some have been forced to lead and that I need not complain. Perhaps the blunt, but honest reminder is that when I am tempted to complain I should just "shut up and serve"... perhaps?
2) I felt broken for many: Two conversations that I had really messed me up were with a couple of men that I was blessed to stop and talk to. You see standing across a table from people and just handing them stuff just seems incomplete to me. I have to "connect". You'll hear that word a lot from me moving forward. One man collected some items, but really needed a pair of size 10 boots. So now my mission is to find this man some size 10 winter boots. He was so appreciative of all that we had to offer him and I told him that I would be back hopefully very soon with some boots for him.
Another man that I was able to chat with was a classic story of a many who seemingly had it all, but was distracted by habits and choices that took him off track and now is living the consequences of his choices. His attitude was very good though as he is now looking to get to the point where he can work again and serve those around him. This was a gentle reminder that none of us are exempt from life's trials and temptations. I'm grateful to God for his protection... especially when that protection is from myself.
3) "I have no pants": I won't go into the details of this story, but this was one individuals response when we asked if there was anything we could do for them. Think about that statement for a few seconds and let the reality of it sink in. This wrecked me as I considered it. This is North America and yet this statement reflects someones reality. God help us to reach out!!! I'll stop there.
4) Last but not least is a song that one lady was singing as we were handing out items (to her and others) which was nice on a cold day where complaining again could creep in. The power of this moment was not in her voice or even us handing out items, but in the song that she was singing near the end. Tell me if you've heard this one:
"When peace like a river attendeth my way.
When sorrows like sea billows roll.
Whatever my lot, thou has taught me to say,
it is well, it is well with my soul".
Need I say more?
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