A recent volunteer shared how an evening with our families changed her life, and helped her realize her own “true calling:”
I just wanted to let you know how WELL the dinner went last night! The children had a great time laughing and playing together just “being kids.” Liz* had tears in eyes as she told me that in that moment it was the “happiest she had seen Joey in weeks.”
Mary and Tom were very sweet. They have felt well fed and taken care of. They were extremely thankful to all who have been involved with their care. Their daughter Susan enjoyed playing the piano all night as sister Sandy made beaded necklaces and friendship bracelets with my daughter.
I myself was very touched by Liz’s story. She recognized me as one of the nurses on the maternity floor at HMC where her 3 children were born. We immediately connected. She proceeded to tell me of her baby lost to SIDS. We cried together and held each other. I felt such pain for her as a mother myself. I only hope that our conversation helped heal her heart in some way. What amazing strength she has. I admire her in so many ways. I have to say I held my baby son a little more closely last night.
As it was time to leave I gathered my children. They said their goodbye’s. Upon leaving my 6yo son whispered “but we haven’t met the homeless children yet, Mommy.” This struck up a conversation in which a deep lesson was learned. Homelessness indeed has no “face.”
Needless to say, I was very moved by the evening. I did not go into the church last night knowing how different I would feel walking out. How “touched” and “affected” I had become. It was not that long into the evening before I realized that I had found my calling within the church. I have been a member for almost 2 years. Always searching / wondering where my “duties” belonged. Our pastor spoke about “true callings” one Sunday morning within the church. I was disheartened because I sat there in the pew feeling kind of empty because mine had yet to be revealed to me. I feel confident now that I have found it.
So, officially….I would be pleased to join the IHN committee / family if you will have me. I will be e-mailing Bob and signing up for the volunteer course. In the meantime… if you need any more assistance…please let me know. Sarah
* Names of families changed to protect their privacy
