update #4 - loving my (homeless) neighbors: Seattle

"we think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked, and homeless. the poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty. we must start in our own homes to remedy this kind of poverty." -- Mother Theresa

Last night I went to a local shelter to serve dinner to some of my homeless neighbors. Since it wasn't raining, I decided to walk down to the shelter, which is always helpful in clearing my mind, slowing my thoughts, and preparing me for the experience and conversations I'm about to have.

And I had no idea just what I was in for.

Before the meal, we all sang some Christmas carols together and it was such a beautiful sight, looking at all of these people who are visibly hurt, broken, struggling to make it another day opening their mouths and singing. It's amazing what a little bit of music can do to lift spirits. And to see a room filled with men and women desperate for hope, finding some joy in the moment as we all sang together, gave me an overwhelming sense of love for these people I'd just met.

It keeps things in perspective, really, to meet people who don't have a house or apartment to call home, and yet can smile, finding joy in the midst of such pain. My heart broke for my neighbors there, but I also felt so much hope for them because of their outward demonstration of hope, joy, and peace.

The conversations I had with a couple of them after the meal were such a good reminder to me that these neighbors of mine are just as broken as I am, because we all share in our humanity. And they can also have just as much joy and hope as I can.

And so I gladly and humbly plan to return to that shelter to not only serve my neighbors, but also listen to their stories. There's so much I can learn from them. But, more importantly, when I slow down and actively engage in conversation with my homeless neighbors, it gives them a chance to regain their sense of humanity, feeling valued and loved again. And what greater gift is there to give than sharing in Christ's love with one another? 'Tis the season, after all. :)



♥ mk

update #3 - adventures in the South

"it doesn't matter where you go in life... it's who you have beside you."

Friendsgiving 2014: reunited with one of my best friends

I'm now back in Seattle after an incredible week in the South. When I first started planning this trip to North and South Carolina, I had no idea what the week was going to look like, who I'd be able to see, or how I was even going to get from one city to the next. Now, looking back on the last ten days, I'm amazed at how the details all fell right into place, humbled by the wonderful hospitality I experienced, and beyond thankful for the time I got to spend with friends - both new and old.

Exploring Charleston, SC with some
wonderful (new and old!) friends

Spontaneous adventures, many wonderful conversations, countless fits of giggles. Those things all make life - and traveling - that much more fun. But they can't be planned. 

It's when things aren't planned that I get to keep my eyes opened for opportunities to see, enjoy, taste, experience new things. I see these things for what they are: gifts.

Sharing a meal with a dear friend from high school
in Winston-Salem, NC

Every little thing that happened while I was traveling around the Carolinas seemed to be a gift - the extra time spent with new friends, the beauty of a change in scenery, the chance to catch up with friends and family I hadn't seen in years, the refreshing feeling of hiking on a cool Fall day, the kind of laughter that makes you double over, and the true fellowship that was centered completely around Jesus. I'm still amazed by it all, really.

It's pretty wonderful what can happen if I let go of trying to control every single detail and let God take care of it. That's something I've said for years and always thought it was a great idea, but it was such a struggle to actually let go of that control.

I've learned a lot this past year, but among the most life-altering was a complete shift in my perspective. I no longer have my own agenda, don't try to do things my way, don't even have expectations of what I think should happen.

Because it's only when I let go of those ideas that the most incredible moments, interactions, conversations, experiences happen. Everything becomes a gift.

Visiting my sweet cousin in beautiful Greenville, SC

♥
mk