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Night of Lessons
THANK YOU FOR ATTENDING!
More than 100 were in attendance on a rainy Friday night.
Eyes filled with tears as we listened to 22-year-old Jamie share the story of family with addictions and the path that lead her to follow their steps. Loud clapping filled the gym at the Salvation Army as we learned of her recovery and the news that Jamie was moving into an apartment today. The greatest joy came when we learned that she would get her 18-month-old son back.
19 year old Joseph retold the story of abuse that started at the age of 2, subsequent CPS care, adoption, abuse at the hands of the adoptive family, more foster care, and homelessness after aging out of foster care. He spoke softly and matter-of-factly as if reading someone else’s journey. He now has a part-time job and thanks to a new family of friends will go to college in the Spring of 2011.
Both Jamie and Joseph expressed their gratitude to those who helped them find hope: The Salvation Army and Rev. Pat Mallory of First Baptist Church of Tyler.
Rabbi Neal Katz openned the event with uplifting and at times funny music. http://katzmusic.com/
Ramoth Gilead shared stories through music that touched our soul during the closing of the event and the candlelight vigil. http://www.myspace.com/thereallybad
John Bass read “A Homeless Man” a poem that brought to light the pain and hopes of man who felt invisible while surrounded by passers-by.
At 5:30 am, after a warm breakfast provided by the energetic Gary, Chef at the Salvation Army, people shared lessons learned. Greater awareness brought understanding, understanding brought compassion, compassion will lead to action. Candid statements from young college students revealed common misperceptions about homelessness. Those without money to give learned the power of volunteerism.
Nodding heads and quiet acknowledgments assured us that great lessons were learned. All accepted the task of sharing this new understanding of homelessness with friends.
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