Day 77 - Day 83

"With everyone you meet and everyone that leaves, you always learn something from them."

"A community is based on people who love and share their joys, fears, and troubles with each other."

"Even in bad days you can manage to find one good thing that happened to you."

     So I am a slacker. You caught me red handed. I am so sorry for not updating my blog sooner but you know how this job is (well only through what I write on here hehe). I love this job. No, seriously, I love this job. I know that even though I'll be done in less than two weeks (meep!) that Church on the Street will forever have a place in my heart. Oh geez just thinking about this gets me emotional!

     ANYWAYS, last week we had 2 mission teams come in from Indiana. They were awesome. My team was pretty darn awesome. I met so many amazing people. Something weird that I usually don't see/feel happen is myself becoming the student instead of the teacher. As an intern we are the "leaders" of the group and I generally, well, lead the group. But sometimes it can be tiring and one day last week I was tired. So as I was having a low a student comes up and gives me one of the sweetest compliments that I've heard in a while. It made my day. He later said that he felt God wanting him to talk to me. So I told him we'd talk the next night. I also met and talked to one of the leaders that I really connected with. He and the other student just had such a huge impact on me. Instead of giving advice and listening to people, I was being listened to. I forgot just how important that really is... but more important is to have someone that listens that can help you grow closer to God- which is what both of these gentlemen did. They not only gave me hope and encouragement for the future but they strengthened my relationship with Christ. I know we always tell our mission teams how we'll realize that more people will have made an impact on us than how we impacted on other people. This mission team, these people I talked to, helped me realize just that.

     That week consisted of fellowship with our mission teams, being for and with our most vulnerable friends, 2 block parties, and a picnic. That week changed my life. Just how this internship changed my life. To be able to be myself (goofy, serious, as a leader or as a student) and grow with other people from different states, nationalities, ethnicities, etc, and have a great time. That's my job guys. And it's beautiful. Creating life long friends is just one of the MILLION pros that I've been able to gain. 

     That weekend we also had another weekend mission team. Though they only stayed for a few days, one little boy in particular caught me in amazement. He was 13 years old and during our parish walks he introduced himself to every single person he saw. He talked to every single person he saw. He was positive throughout the entire time I was with him. He was kind and sweet and always thankful. To be able to see that in a boy at such a young age made me realize how incredible God's impact on people really is. 

     Another such example is today. We went to Six Flags with a few of our friends. It was beyond what words could describe. We spent the entire day at the park (and let me tell you it was HOT), but we shared laughter, screams, and fellowship. At the end of the day we took time to talk to each other and really value each others company. Seeing the group I was with, that made me realize what a community is. This group, we've been through joys and sorrows, painful experiences and suffering, laughter and sharing. That's what a community is. That is what Church on the Street is about. The broken community that Atlanta has right now is because many of us don't want to endure the suffering and pain with each other. We don't want to get to know each other (EVERY type of person out there). But today proved different. Today we proved that a community of completely different individuals CAN become united in one. We can become one community, because God is always present in our community and because we are willing to humble ourselves and be equal with one another. It's easier said than done. And it's easier typed than done. But this internship doesn't stop on August 15. This internship is to continue for the rest of my life because we never stop growing and we never stop learning. I hope and pray that for the next 2 weeks God can continue to work through Church on the Street. I'm beyond excited to see what happens next. 

Jenny Sample

Day 76

Everyone has a gift

     Today was Belt Line day with Jon! It was super awesome and might I say super long (but that's not me whining because I would be breaking rule #3!) It really was awesome though. We probably walked the farthest I've yet walked but I was also able to get to know several of the people from our mission team. I talked to Luke for awhile and we shared our lives and what he was doing and what I was doing. We talked about how God works in mysterious ways and at the times when we need it the most. That's how I got to be in this internship now. I placed all my trust in God and prayed that He would do what is best for me... and crazy enough He did just that. With this internship I am able to not only become more independent in myself but more dependent on God. Sounds kind of like an oxymoron doesn't it? But if you think about it, it's true. I love taking control of my life and others' as well. That's gotten me in sticky situations some of the time. But this year I really focused on relying on God... and everything (and when I mean everything I mean everything) has worked out perfectly. It's crazy how God works in mysterious ways.

     Later that day the teams had the homeless walk. When we met them at Krispy Kreme we debriefed and gave them all a chance to speak. To be able and hear the different stories that many of them were able to share and how they were able to see God through that really made me thankful of what I'm doing. Each of the story spoke of different gifts that each person had. One man could distinguish the weeds from the tomato plants to thus help weed the roof garden. Others was simply to talk. But everyone was able to contribute and show God's love through their actions. That helped me understand how God shines through everyone, and through a particular way as well. But we must continue to show God's love through our actions and words everyday. We can never stop loving people. As an intern that sometimes gets hard to do because I think how sometimes I'm "off the clock". In reality we should never be "off the clock" to love people. Why? Because loving people shouldn't be hard. But it is. But that's why we have to keep loving people, because you never know how God might want to shine through you and change someone's life. 

Jenny Sample

Day 74 & 75

Keep your head up

     So Monday night the 2 mission teams arrived! Both from Indiana! Woohoo! We had orientation Monday night and took them to Kroger for breakfast!

    

Tuesday

     Today we climbed Stone Mountain. It was pretty humid... but something I loved about both teams this week is how they waited for the entire team as they were climbing up the mountain. Pastor Andy always says how as a team we are supposed to be together as a community through the good and through the bad. Seeing that these groups have already begun to do so... well that just makes us interns happy :)

     After Stone Mountain we hit up Cici's where I always eat too much... the dessert pizza is the best of course (even though I had to wait like 10 minutes for a brownie... ) After lunch we returned to our parish and hit the streets! Our group started at Peachtree and Pine. There I was able to go to the top of the Lot to talk to several of my friends who welcomed me in. I introduced them to the team and we just began to talk. I talked a lot to Vesta who told me about her new job at Evo's and one day we interns are all gonna visit her. She was able to give a group extremely good advice about the city. She told them how we each choose our decisions and it's up to us to want to make a change in our lives. A lot of the guys from the street accept that their life will always be how it is now. But, like Vesta, people can decide to get out of the situation they are in and, like Vesta, can continue to make a positive impact in her life and others. 

     I also spent time with Tonette! She made sure I had a place to sit and we had a nice conversation! She told me how she is waiting to get her SSI and I told her I'd keep her in my prayers- so please anyone and everyone who's reading this do the same :) After the Lot we went to Peachtree Center for dinner and Joshua and 'Dre surprised us there! They walked with us to Woodruff where we let the team separate into their groups and talk. I was also able to find out how someone who I am extremely close with manipulated me. I am not gonna lie I was kind of sad to find this out... but it is times like this where one has to rely on God to make things better. I know that everything happens for a reason and that through all this something good will come out of it. Until then.. what can ya do but pray?! Manipulation hurts and it feels crappy... but so does a lot of things in life... and what doesn't kill ya makes ya stronger! That's something that I was able to take in as an intern this summer. Everyday there are good and bad things that can and will happen. You can either make the best out of a bad situation or let it take you down. Well lemme tell ya, no matter how much you want the bad situations to take you down, as long as you trust and confide in God, He will always bring you up. 

      Through this specific situation... He will bring all of us up. So please continue to keep us in your prayers :)

Jenny Sample

Day 69 - Day 72

Everyone enters and leaves our life for a purpose

     

     With each mission team coming and leaving you might think that it gets hard getting close to the people and watching them leave. I look at it a slight different way. This week we had 2 teams from Michigan, both of them extremely awesome! I, along with Lauren and Jesse, were with Sparta Baptist Church. The first few days were incredible as you could tell by my last blog. The rest of the week was incredible as well! Wednesday our team walked through the city with Big Jon where we were able to go under the Auburn bridge. Now even though we weren't able to talk to many guys throughout the morning, Big Jon said how most of the time it isn't about finding a lot of guys to talk to- but just one. He explained it further with the parable Jesus tells about the 99 sheep and finding the 1. Throughout our life we constantly want to meet new people, experience as many things as possible and keep things coming. Sometimes though it makes a greater difference when we find and help just one person. When we really care and love that one person, even though we leave the 99, that may change that entire persons life. Later that afternoon the team went on their homeless walk. This helped them gain a perspective of how the guys on the street get around the city. One group actually talked to a police and he then commenced to scream at them to tell them they shouldn't be walking around those areas because the people that live there are "animals" even if God is on their side. When they told us that... I was pretty flustered. But I knew that for the team it was just a taste of how people view the homeless- not even as people but as animals. 

     That is why we have mission teams and take them around the city. Because like myself, it changes how you view things. It's pretty crazy to see by the end of the week that many, if not all, of the teams say how talking to the guys changed their lives. How easy it was to talk to them. How... they were just like us. Crazy huh? Like I said, I was like that before I began working for COTS. I looked the other way and pretended they didn't exist. But being with them through the good and the bad for an entire summer made me realize just how similar we all are. Sure, they may not have the same things we do, but they sure do feel the same things we feel. Being able to show mission teams this helps them draw closer to God and His community. It helps them reach out and love them. To hug the hug less, love the unlovable, and touch the untouchable. You may be surprised how much this can change people's lives- it sure has changed mine. 

     On Thursday we took the team to Taskforce (the Shelter) and I took a group to Retreat. I love Retreat. The group I took loved it as well. Being able to talk to the guys and women there is wonderful. It's a place where they are able to retreat from the street and be vulnerable- talk about their troubles or how their days are going. I was able to talk to a few of my friends that I haven't seen and it's like reconnecting with an old friend. After we had a block party at an apartment complex with little kids. They did my hair again and we played kickball, basketball, checkers and what not. We had to cut it early because it started thunderstorming. But even when it began to rain, the team was still out playing with any kid who was still outside. That was great :)

     On Friday we visited the MLK Center where the team truly saw the reality of what we do and connect it with something MLK did. How one person can change a nation's view. Being able to connect things with a cause that America is still struggling with today helps you realize just how important this is. Later we had a picnic with our friends from the street. That's always my favorite part. Throughout the week the team gets to know many guys who come to our picnic. Being able to reconnect with them and engage in games, eat lunch with them, and love them helps them see how friendships can be built. Once the picnic was over we went to another block party that the Community Church of God hosts. I always go straight to the face painting where I get to be creative and just go :) I love it- even though I end up getting paint all over myself! Haha. 

    That night the team was able to share their experiences. Which is always awesome!!! We see happy tears flow and wonderful stories shared and God's love shine through. We pray that they are able to continue what we do in their own hometown and hug it out. 

    Sautrday on the Street

     It's Ainsley's birthday!!!! And my mom came!!! This was by far one of the best SOTS ever because of the wonderful people that came. I was so excited my mom was able to come and finally see what we do. She met a lot of my friends and was able to talk to many of them. I really hope she is able to come again :) Ainsley- Pastor Andy's daughter- also turned 4 today! We celebrated all those who had July birthdays and played chess, checkers, and games. Even though our snow cone machine broke, another group came and joined us with some clothes, water, and cool aide. That just goes to show that God is good and works in mysterious ways :) 

Jenny Sample

Day 68- Tuesday, July 19

Be proud of who you are

     What a simple yet powerful saying, right? Be proud... of who YOU are. Many people, including myself, don't really appreciate ourselves. We say we're not good enough for whoever we are aiming our eyes to, we say we aren't pretty enough, skinny enough, perfect enough, we ask who would want us for our past?. Who would want to be with us because of the family problems we've been in? We have too many imperfections and we are just never good enough. I can attest to the fact that I have felt it all. And lemme tell ya... God is beyond great. Who should we aim our eyes to? GOD. Who says we are beautiful, both inside and outside? GOD. Who says we are perfect just the way we are? GOD. Who forgets the past and focuses not on family problems but on our own problems and trying to conquer them with unending love? GOD. 

     It's beautiful to be able to see and be a part of God's unending love. Seeing how He works through each and every one of our lives. Separately and individually. With patience. But with His patience we must have patience as well. This week we have two more mission teams- both from Michigan. I love to see how even though most of the teams come from the same state- or states right next to each other- they each have different stories and different things to contribute to our community. The amount of stories I heard today was beyond incredible. Each one touched my heart. Each one made me realize how fortunate I am to be where I am today. To be able to overcome the trials and tribulations that God has put me through and to be able to be carried by His love. 

     One such story was with Tonette. Like I said in previous blogs.. she is called Hell Raiser- and she lives by her name proudly! I had given her my spoon ring which she absolutely loved. Later last week one of the guys from my team wore a cross necklace and Tonette wanted it. I told her I that I would find her one towards the end of the week, and she got upset. I told her to be patient though! So the end of the week comes and still no cross necklace. I wasn't able to find one. I was going home that week and figured I could get her a nice one she would really appreciate. But of course I see her before the end of the week is up. She had been looking for that cross necklace day after day and when she saw me she wasn't happy. She probably thought I was another typical "Christian" who gave false promises and never carried them out. Or someone who wouldn't go through with their word. It broke my heart thinking about that. I don't want to be that to somebody- especially someone who has gone through so much her as Tonette. She wanted that cross necklace to "protect her from the evil spirits at night" and when she saw that I couldn't help her I understood why she was upset- I was just another disappointment to her. I let her be and promised myself I would find her one. 

     Come today I took 2 of my groups to the top of the hill and saw her. She saw me and pulled me aside and I told her I had something for her. I showed her the necklace and she became a small girl. I put it on her and from then on she showed everyone her new necklace. She made sure that every person that walked by the spot talked to me or if not, she introduced them to me. She took care of me and said God bless you. She also gave me a hugee hug and a kiss :) This probably made my week. I knew that through this I was able to show that Christians aren't just there to make false promises- we are there to show our love through our actions as well as through our words. I pray that I can continue to get closer to her and help her know that she should be proud of who she is because God loves her. I pray that one day she can see the love God has for her and that this cross necklace can be a step towards that path. 

     Please continue to pray for our mission teams as they're doing a GREAT job so far! I am excited to see what God has in store for us next! 

     P.S: shout out to my past mission teams! From Tennessee, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio - I MISS YOU and y'all are awesome and helped inspire me ten times more! You will all have a special home here in Atlanta, Georgia so keep in touch :)

Jenny Sample

Days 63-65

"Words that soak into your ears are whispered... not yelled."

"Meanness doesn't just happen overnight."

"The best sermons are lived, not preached."

Thursday, June 14

       Today we took FFC on the Belt Line with Big Jon. We actually went under the tunnel full of graffiti where many rap videos are recorded. Walking through it was like entering a valley of darkness really... The entire tunnel was full of gang graffiti and different meanings that I didn't know. I just had an empty feeling inside as we walked passed it and I kinda wanted to know what went down during the night.. I'm usually that girl who is very curious.. sometimes too curious! Ha ha. But the rest of the Belt Line went pretty well. Big Jon took us through different parts that I hadn't walked and we were able to see the homeless fort. We actually saw a few of the homeless guys in the tunnels as well. During lunch I had the best falafel wrap ever with Jesse and Mr. and Mrs. Baab. We then got together with the rest of the team and I saw Paul, one of the guys from the street. He didn't want to talk to me so I kind of let him be. I also saw one of my old high school friends who I hadn't seen in over 5 years. That was a nice surprise :)

     When we got back from the Belt Line the team had a 2 hour rest and we then left to go to a Safehouse block party. There the team was able to play with the kids at an apartment complex and I was able to get hit in the eye with a dodgeball. It hurt pretty bad. But before I was talking to a lady named Martica who has an apartment infested with mold and mildew. She told me that it had taken over her entire apartment that she couldn't live in it anymore and her little daughter, who has asthma, had to be taken to the hospital several times throughout the week. I was talking to her to try and help her when the ball hit and even though it hurt.. a lot... I just contained that pain and kept talking to Martica. Please pray for her so that she can find a new home for her and her little daughter. 

     After we went to Jason's Deli to debrief. We chose that over the Varsity because we wanted to switch it up. The debrief went awesome! Our team all participated and shared different things they saw throughout the day. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Friday, June 15

     Today we took the team to the MLK Center. Every Friday we do this to each mission team to ask the question so what? So what if we help the homeless? So what if we do anything? So what? At the MLK Center the question of so what is answered with the life of Martin Luther King Jr. He decided that "so what" wouldn't go unanswered. So he gave his entire life in dedication to something he believed and stood up for. Because of that he was able to change the views of an entire nation. At the end of a video we watched they asked us the question of what will we do for something that we believe in? For me and the interns, we'll be "for and with our most vulnerable neighbors". But what we want to leave the mission teams with is a yearning to stand up for something they love. 

     After leaving the center we had a picnic in the park. I was able to see Jimmy and he gave me the biggest hug ever. He entered the Salvation Army and was going to enter it today. We talked for awhile about his goals of seeing his family and how he has people who love and care for him that will help him whenever he is struggling. I could see in his eyes that yearning to change his life and I am excited to be a part of his life. I was also able to talk to Jennifer and help her out as she struggled with a few more things. I told her that I love her and care for her and we were able to share what we were feeling for over an hour. I also noticed Joshua hang out with the team to make spoon rings. Each time a mission team comes and we debrief, they always mention Joshua. They always say how he is inspiring with his story. I think of Joshua as an older brother and I was excited when my mom got to meet him on Saturday :) 

     After the picnic we had a parish walk and went to Woodruff. Joshua came and I got to meet his friend Scott. Scott was an awesome guy who had so many interesting stories! We probably talked the entire time I was there and they walked back with us to St. Paul. I'm excited that I get to talk to him more on Saturday! After the walk we had another block party with Community Church of God. There I face painted and played ring around the rosie. After the block party we went to the Varsity to debrief. Both teams hung out throughout the day and the debrief was beyond amazing. Several of the guys shared their experience- each with what they got out of it. It just amazes me each time to see how each person was touched differently and by different people. It's great :) From there I had to say bye to the teams - which is sad as usual. I love my team because they were so kind hearted and such hard workers! They always put their best foot forward and always gave it their best. It was hard saying bye but hopefully I'll try to visit them sometime or they can always visit us :)

Saturday, June 16

     Saturday on the Street! Several new people showed up today so that was really great. I also was able to talk to Mother Theresa and she told us her story of her son and how she knows that God strengthens her day after day. When I talked to Eddy, he told me the same thing. He told me he knows that God does everything for a reason and that he has to trust Him but that sometimes he struggles. I told him I'd pray for him and then I went and talked to a few more people. Carey was there and I talked to him for a bit. I was also able to talk to Manny a lot today and he helped me with a lot of things. Scott came and I talked to him and played checkers with him. He is pretty darn good! We had to call it a tie because everyone was already packing up but Scott starts his new job today! He's working at Taco Mac as a cook! I was so happy to hear that and I'm excited to see how it goes :) After SOTS my mom came and met several of my friends! She met Joshua, Tony, Reggie, Steve, Manny, David, Gary and a few others. I was excited about that and hopefully my family can come one day to SOTS :)

Jenny Sample

Days 60-62

Never Stop Lovin'

     On Monday we went to Retreat for a bit and hung out before our mission teams came. I got to see Jennifer and talked to her. She told me that she considered me one of her closest friends and that touched my heart. Later when  we were at the Lot I saw Tonette and she was wearing the ring I gave her awhile ago. I seriously thought she had lost it or sold it. But she didn't. Before we left I mentioned it to her and she smiled and said that she appreciated it so so much :) 

     Later our two mission teams came! Jesse and I are the leaders for Faith Fellowship and yesterday we climbed Stone Mountain and took them to Woodruff and the Lot. During Woodruff they split up into groups and talked to several of the guys and some got to play chess After our dinner at Underground we went to the Lot. I took a group to the top of the hill and we saw our usual friends that we hang out with. 2 of the girls were actually talking to Tonette and I noticed she still had my ring. I introduced these two to her and she showed them my ring and she still loved it. We talked to Will and some of the other guys from the Lot and left after 20 minutes. When we went to the Lot I realized how I didn't even consider it my job anymore. I literally walked right up and began talking to my friends. Just hanging out. It was extremely awesome to be able to think that. 

     Today we all worked at Taskforce. We had to sanitize 400 mattresses. Even though that took one hour (because I have an awesome team!) I realized just how fortunate I am to not have to sleep there. Cleaning those mattresses kind of disgusted me with the dirt and rust that was on it. I tried my best to avoid it! But I thought back and thanked God that I only had to clean them... not sleep on them. After coming back from lunch the team got a tour of the Shelter. I believe that helped our team gain perspective of just how the Shelter worked. After we cleaned the clothing closet and we walked to CNN for the homeless walk. During our debrief, we asked our team where they saw God present and absent during their days. They told us about the people they met and we told them how important prayer is even after they leave. How God can and does listen to our prayers and He answers them in His own time. This mission team really seems to love what they do and I'm excited to see what God has in store for us throughout the rest of the week!

Jenny Sample

Days 54- 58

Keep Your Head Up

"You only ever grow as a human being if you're outside your comfort zone."
- Percy Cerutty

Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore. 
- Andre Gide

~ Both of these quotes were inspired by the work we do on COTS. It's when we are out of our comfort zone that we are able to grow and see the greatness God has for us and how He pushes us through and through. Once we lose sight of the shore we are able to discover more shores that will be worth it in the long haul. Sure you may confront many storms, but with the help of God, He can help you navigate the way to a brand new world. COTS has and is showing us this by letting go of the control we want to have and giving it all to Him. Letting Him steer our wheel not only takes stress off of us but guides us to new paths that create opportunities to help other people going through similar problems that we are going through. So let go and let God. :)

     As each day passes I realize more and more how God works in everyone's lives. Whether many of them are "Christians" or not, being able to see the smallest miracle work through and around people really helps keep my head up. Though sometimes, as I've said several times, it's hard to keep a positive attitude, having faith that God will work in our lives helps keep me moving. Throughout this week I mainly talked to Jimmy. We got really close and Andrew and I were able to get him his ID. The process however was far from simple. That Friday we arrived at St. Paul and Gary handed us the letter that the elders had written for Jimmy, letting him use their mailing address for his ID. We headed over to the DMV and while we waited for Jimmy's number to be called out I prayed and prayed that everything would work out just fine. Going through so much the day before, like a roller coaster ride of emotions, I don't know what I would've felt like if they wouldn't let Jimmy get his ID. Then his number was called out. It was like it was too good to be true.. the lady was actually nice and asked Jimmy to sign in a few places and to stare at the camera until it flashes. I seriously didn't think this was going to happen until the camera actually flashed and that flash was also my sign that Jimmy had actually received his ID. When he got it he was BEYOND happy and we took him to Dairy Queen and returned to St. Paul's where he showed his ID to a few of the guys there. 

     I saw him again the next day for Saturday on the Street and I could still see the joy in his eyes. He helped Lauren make snow cones and always asked me if I wanted anything- until he actually gave me some water :) Jimmy has become an extremely close friend to me. I care about him so much and I'm excited that he has become a part of my life and that hopefully I've become a part of his. This is exactly what Church on the Street is; to be able to create strong friendships and stay in touch with each other throughout time- and that's what I hope will happen to Jimmy and I's friendship. I also have become close to Manny (The Hawaiian as I like to call him haha ), Joshua, Tony, Reggie, and Moe. Each of theses guys have opened my eyes incredibly and touched my heart. They also encouraged me whenever I was down and always knew how to bring me up. We now have a few inside jokes that we use on a regular basis :)

     I also ask that you keep a woman named Jennifer in your prayers. We had been praying for her to show up to Retreat since she had been gone for a few weeks. She showed up on Friday and at first she was doing ok but one thing led to another that made her tell me that she's not going to Retreat anymore. She struggles with a few things in her life and I just pray that God can help her through all this and lead her to people that will care for her. Hopefully she'll come back in a  few weeks. Other than that we have 2 more mission teams coming in tomorrow- so keep Church on the Street in your prayers as well as the mission teams! I'm excited to see what will happen within the next week! 

Jenny Sample

Day 50 - 53

People need to be loved and valued by others. They need to see what love looks like.

When we allow ourselves to be disarmed, we become both vulnerable and strong.  

 Difficult choices humble us and force us to rely on God’s grace and to see God’s wisdom.

      Internship is going so awesome right now. But I'll be honest.. sometimes I  feel like I'm worn out and have nothing to give. I wake up every morning and pray for strength. On Wednesday (June 6) I really felt like going back to the office after Retreat. Luckily I went on a parish walk with Hana and Andrew where we went to St. Luke's park. Jimmy, Moe, and Daniel were there. I always love talking to those guys so Andrew and I went over. We began talking with Jimmy and he told us how he's trying to get his ID and birth certificate. We told him we would help him and drive him over and to see Jimmy's face.. that was awesome. He couldn't really describe how happy he was just that he is ready to make a change. So today we did just that. We took Jimmy and got his birth certificate. He was so excited!! So after that we went to the DMV for his ID.. but of course we ran into some red tape that in the end have to come back tomorrow. So please please keep us, especially Jimmy in your prayers, so that he can be one step closer to entering a program! Even though I was tired throughout this week, seeing Jimmy and being able to help me out gave me strength. Being able to help out a friend in need... is beyond amazing. Jimmy has helped me value my life and family and to be able to do something in return is the least I can do for a friend. 

     Today I also saw Janice. I haven't seen her in a long time and have been praying for her safety. Today she showed up when Gary was talking to Jimmy and I. She said she found a place to stay but she wanted to find a Women's Christian Center so I told her I'd find one. Gary got a few numbers and I called Odyssey III to find out that they have openings. So please pray for Janice. She is one of the sweetest women I've met who really wants to get out of the streets. She is one friend who is close to my heart and I want what's best for her and what God wants for her and I pray that little by little God reveals Himself to her. 

     Throughout this week we also went on parish walks, especially to Retreat. On the Fourth we walked around and talked to a few people and took 2 of our friends out for lunch. Apparently the police are enforcing the rule of not feeding the homeless. So many of them are struggling. 

     But I know that we just have to be patient and do what we can. Like the 3rd quote says, we must rely on God through our difficult parts in our lives. I pray that throughout these difficult times that many of our friends are going through, that they rely on God and that we can comfort them and show them God's love. Please keep us in your prayers because they help more than you can imagine!

Jenny Sample

Day 45- Day 48

Everyone has a story

    I've always said that everyone has a story. Whenever talking to anyone, to always treat them justly because you never know what they're going through. It isn't until this summer that throughout my internship I am able to understand (and still learn more) about this phrase. Throughout this week I was able to talk to Jimmy, Daumal, Daniel, Tommy, Hawk, Price, and several other guys. Each of these guys had their own story. With each of them I was also able to tell them parts of my story and be able to connect with them through that. With Jimmy in particular, I was able to see someone through his eyes. Every word of that conversation I had with him was like that someone was talking to me. It really helped open my eyes to see his point of view from the situation and slowly start to restore certain things that I myself have struggled with. 

     Going out to the streets day after day also helps see the reality of the world. While I say this time and time again, coming from Georgia Tech, I was completely oblivious to half of the things going around in my own community. Being an intern for Church on the Street helps create newfound relationships that have helped me grow stronger in my faith and in myself as well. Talking so several of the guys from the streets gives me perspective of my struggles compared to everyone's struggles. One thing that has been hard for me, and still is, is being away from my friends and family. Even though I have made several new friends here and I love it, I miss everyone back at school and home. Going to Devo Dinner was very strange to me because I wasn't used to that surrounding anymore. I felt kinda weird! I struggled going back to my COTS surrounding because I realized just how much I love my friends at Tech. The same goes with my family. Every Sunday they visit me and every Sunday they leave me. I love it but I hate it everytime. Texting my sister and mom makes my day a little better but also makes me think about how much I love them. I love my family back in Mexico as well. Knowing that my mom is going to Mexico to see them for a week makes me extremely happy because I know she needs to see them but it also makes me sad because I want to see them too. 

     See, my grandfather passed away a few months ago and the last time I saw my family was for his funeral. It's been pretty hard sometimes but my family and I have been able to overcome the sadness and be happy that he is in a better place. However, that's not to say that there hasn't been any struggles. I would have loved to go and see my family in Mexico and yeah it made me sad I can't go but I know that God put me here for a reason. I know that God is slowly guiding me to the path that He wants me to be in. But it has been rough every now and then. 

     Crazy how God works though... just as I was getting real low I read this quote from "With Justice for All":

God will use your suffering to “perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you”

     I absolutely loved this quote because I was going through some suffering and it was God's way of saying "I'm making you stronger". Through all this time away I've had from my family, God is making me stronger. Through the times I'm away from my friends, God is making me stronger. But it also is the same for everyone I've talked to, everyone who's reading this, everyone in general. For Jimmy, God is making him stronger through the tempations he faces and the decisions he makes. For Daumal, God is making him stronger for the patience  the commitment he has for his friends. I just pray that God can keep us focused on the important things He has for us and to help us realize that through life and its suffering- it is there that He strengthens us the most. Ahhh I need to remember this everyday. Please keep me in yours prayers and everyone else too!

Jenny Sample

June 28, 2011 - Day 44

     Today was a parish walk! WOOHOO. This was the first time the three girls went on one solo. You would've been proud Pastor Andy :) We went to Central Park where we saw our friend Carey and he talked to us more than "Do you have socks?" He also asked us what time it was and if we had underwear. I believe that is a step up. After we went to Renaissance where we met someone new! His name was Tony and we talked about where we were from. He seemed pretty chill but it was clear that he was waiting for someone so we just kept walking towards Peachtree and Pine. Once we got there we talked to Robert for awhile. I remember when he would barely talk to us. Now he told us how he went to the hospital for some artificial tears because he got dry eyes. He also had a huge smile on his face and told us that he knows why God put him out on the streets because he needed time to figure his life out and he is doing just that. He also keeps in regular contact with his sister, so please keep Robert in your prayers!

     After talking to Robert, I talked to Sherry. I've never seen her until sometime last week so I wanted to get to know her better. She said she was born in N.C. but arrived in Atlanta and she's waiting on getting her I.D. from the Shelter. She seemed pretty quiet but I enjoyed talking to him. Our other friend, Robert, then came up and he talked to us for a bit. After a while we went to the top of the hill where we met up with Mike, Will, Tonette (Hell Raiser), and a few of our other friends. Tonette actually gave Lauren and I a piece of Church's chicken.. I was so incredibly amazed.. She then took care of us by throwing all our trash. Then she was wanting a ring so I gave her my spoon ring that Six made me (sad day I know).. but she LOVED it. She said she was gonna keep it on for the rest of her life so let's see if she has it next time I stop around. She gave me hug too. That was nice. Josh then came after that!

     We just chilled the rest of the time. I taught him some spanish and he drew in my little notebook. He seemed kind of out of it for a while... Hana and Lauren then decided to leave so we did and Josh decided to join us. We walked to the office and once there I sat down with Josh and tried telling him of what his dad told me... but once again he said that he doesn't have any condition and he refuses to take medication. He said that he doesn't have anything wrong with him but at the same time he said he is confused on what he has. He contradicted himself a lot throughout our conversation and it ended kind of.. well blah is the only word I can come up with. I told him that we were going to Retreat because he went today in the morning for breakfast) and he should come but he said God doesn't want him there. I just ask that you keep Josh in your prayers. I told him how his parents want to help him and so do I but that he needs to want to help himself. I also told him that I'd be there for him as a friend. He smiled at that. So I just hope that our relationship can keep helping him and that God really enters in his life.

That is all.

Jenny Sample

June 27, 2011 - Day 43

     Today we went to Retreat around 2 after stopping by Starbucks to get the pastries. We walked in and I saw everyone and went to the back to talk to Mike and Six. Lauren and I were there and they were telling us how they want to make a small business for the spoon rings that Six makes. I thought that was a pretty cool idea! Mike was really excited and told us the different processes that they would have to go through to actually be able to make it a business- so please keep them in your prayers! 

     Then Gary began wrapping everything up so little by little everyone was walking out the door. However, Julius and another fellow were getting in an argument and it was escalating fast. For one of the first times it really bothered me- that Julius was having an argument not only inside a church but after he was apologizing for what he did wrong, even though we was still continuing the fight. I tried calming them down and the guy left but Julius was still a bit upset. I don't know.. but that just really bothered me. I need patience in that section I guess... 

     After that bit of drama we all began sorting through and organizing the clothing closet. That was pretty fun because Lauren, Hana, Gary, Tony, and I got into some silly clothing pieces a took a picture (go to the bottom of the page to see it!). The day ended in going to CCF for Devo Dinner where I got to see a lot of my friends who I haven't seen in over a month! It was a kind of weird experience because I wasn't used to the Tech atmosphere but I loved seeing my friends. Talking to them and sharing stories was pretty awesome and it makes me realize just how lucky I am to be in a school with people that care about me. Makes me miss Tech and classes- crazy I know! But then I came back to my job and realized how much I love that. It might be hard at times (a lot of times sometimes! haha) but in the end it's worth it. To be able to see how God works in small and large scales is simply awesome. I pray that God can continue to work in the hearts of the interns and create strength in us to be positive when we encounter negative situations- to know that God works in everyone's lives, but through God's timing. Ah that seems so hard to keep in my mind... but I must continue praying for that. And please keep us in your prayers!

Jenny Sample

June 25, 2011 - Day 41

     So remember how I totally stopped talking to Josh and I was reunited with him yesterday? Well today just got better. Yesterday we never really had a chance to talk a lot but today he came to Saturday on the Street. I was plain amazed to see him there! I always told him to stop by but he never did and now he was here! I made him a snow cone (or 3) and he played chess with some of the girls from the mission team. I then played him and won and later won against 2 more other people woohoo! After that, Lauren was going back to St. Paul's with some of the guys to pack up and Hana and I were gonna take the team to the CNN center for the homeless walk. Josh asked me what I was doing and I told him and asked him to join us so he did. We got there and I bought him lunch. At the CNN Center he talked about the usual different things and how Siddhartha is related to ET and to God. Throughout this entire time I just assumed that it was the drugs that messed up with his thinking.. but there was more to come.
     After lunch Hana talked to the group about the walk and we drove back to the office and Josh joined us. I wanted to get to know him better and so I asked him to tell me about himself. He said that he didn't wanna be who he was in the past and as we were talking he wanted to use the phone to call his dad so I let him. He talked to him for a while and once he was done I actually talked to him. His name is Chuck and he told me how Josh was diagnosed with being bipolar and having schizophrenia. His mom and himself tried helping Josh by sending him to the doctor and getting him to take medication but Josh won't admit that he has a problem. His dad also told me that he wants to send him money but he knows Josh will lose it. Laso that Josh forgets many things (like going and getting his social security) and that he needs someone to be there for him. His dad told me how Josh does know God because he went to a Christian school and his dad has been praying for someone to help him out. I knew that at this moment was the moment God wanted me to be in. Throughout the past month that I heard nothing of Josh I constantly asked the guys from the street where/how he was doing. That the only time I knew of him. Seeing him yesterday and spending the entire day with him was such a blessing. Talking to his dad was even more of a blessing. To see that his family actually cares about- man, the blessings just keep piling up.
     Josh told me that his mom hated him and didn't wanna have anything to do with him. But his mom does care about him- which is why she took him to the hospital so he could get back on his meds. When I finished talking to his dad I told him that he can call my phone whenever he wants and I also gave him my email. I pray that we stay in touch. Hana, Lauren, and I then started walking to Woodruff. Josh came with us and I tried telling him was his dad had told me. I also tried telling him about his mental disorder but he didn't want to believe me. In fact, he strongly denied me and said that the doctors weren't good and weren't trying to help him. But he said that he trusted me and that he was happy that he could call me my friend. I told him that I was happy that I could call him my friend and that I cared about him a lot. We got to Woodruff and we continued talking there and I told him that as a friend I would tell him what I thought and he could do the same. We later then went to Underground where we sat somewhere because I was SO tired. There, I gave him my number and wrote down that I will always be his friend and that "everything's good in the end. If it's not good then it's not the end." He then began writing. He wrote down "I am failure. Worm. Fall." and several other sad/negative words. He said that's who he was. Nobody. That he was lost and he couldn't find God. His mind was so lost and confused and I really didn't know what to do. I could only pray for him. By that time 6 hit and he had to get back to the Shelter. I walked him out and told him that no matter what happens I would always be here as a friend. He said that he loves me and to take care and be safe and he gave me a hug. I really care for this guy. He is such a sweetheart and I want to be there for him. But I know that God needs to take control of his life and that Josh needs to want to change (I told him that!). It's just so hard when you care a lot for someone. So please keep Josh in your prayers :)
     On the way back from Underground a group of the girls from the team and I met Tina. She said she was abducted and talked about it for 40ish minutes. It was crazy to hear her stories that I don't even know if they're true or not. I hope to talk to her again and really be able to understand what she said! We then went back to the office and debriefed there. I really liked having the mission team here and felt that they got a lot out of it, especially this last walk back from the park. I hope that they got something out of it. Most of the day I spent talking to Josh and I told them how he just happens to be special in my heart and I knew they understood what I meant. This was such a wonderful day and I really pray that God continues to work in my life and everyone else.
Jenny Sample

June 24, 2011 - Day 40

     MISSION TEAM IS HERE. Not gonna lie, I was really really nervous. Andy left yesterday for a speaking convention and the guy interns left as well to help out. So it is just us girls + Gary to handle the team. I really wasn't feeling the greatest today and I just wanted to sleep but I prayed to God that he could give me strength for the mission team coming and he did :) We met the team at 4:00 and after the "orientation" we walked them around the Parish... and something CRAZY happened... I SAW JOSH!!!! We were at the Lot talking to Rodney and out of nowhere... Josh comes!!! I got to introduce him to some of the team and we drew and talked for awhile! We went to the top of the Lot and Josh came with us and gosh it was so awesome! He told us how he went to the hospital because his mom sent him there to see if he could come home but later how she didn't want him home (is what Josh told me). I don't know exactly what all went down but he still thinks his mom hates him. He barely spoke with his dad and he still feels like he has nowhere to go. I just pray that I can keep talking to him and understand him better. I seriously never thought I wasn't going to see him again but I was pretty darn happy that I was able to! I told him about SOTS tomorrow so we will see if he comes. I'll definitely keep y'all updated ;)
Jenny Sample

June 23, 2011 - Day 39

     Today we went to Retreat from the Street. I was able to talk to Moe and David and lemme tell y'all... It was so so amazing! I always wanted to have a conversation with Moe and he began telling me how he was a truck driver and the reason why he's in Atlanta was because of his many unpaid tickets from several states. While Moe and I were talking, David entered in on the conversation. I knew David had some type of disability but when I talked to him (or he actually talked to us) I noticed it. I even got to a point where I was becoming a little impatient. Of course it was at that point where my impatience was rising that he told me why he had a disability, that is, he was beaten as a child. For the next hour David and I talked along with Moe.

     After Retreat, Hana, Andrew and I left to go to the Lot. There we met up with the same friends as before. I was also able to talk to Kenny. Hana and I mainly talked to him and lemme tell ya... it.was.awesome. Eddie talked to us about life and how we should give our all to whatever we do. He gave me some pretty awesome advice on dating (haha) and he also wanted to have lunch with us sometime haha. We had to leave early, however, because a storm was coming. Luckily as soon as we got back to the house, it poured. That night, Lauren, Hana and I moved in to the Odle's house where we played Yahtzee Jr. Gotta love that intern bonding. <3

Jenny Sample

June 22, 2011 - Day 38

"If someone says, 'I love God.' and hates his brother, he is a liar; for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen." - I John 4:20

"If we accept that the monsters are there, we can let them out and learn to tame them. That is growth toward liberation." - With Justice for All

"Reconciliation is a unity of heart, mind and purpose." -With Justice for All

     Do you ever have those days? Those days where you start out feeling not so great and as the days progresses you keep feeling not so great? Today was that day for me. We got together in the morning and had daily prayer. I was feeling pretty tired because I did my daily exercise but for some reason I still felt "off". I was hoping to feel better, but I didn't. I actually took a nap and felt even worse. The rest of the interns were gonna do a Parish Walk and I seriously didn't want to go- I even told Hana and Lauren I was planning on sleeping in. Eh. But for some reason I decided to give it a shot because I remembered the last time I felt this way God really worked in mysterious ways. You know what the funny thing is- He never disappoints :)

     We went to the top of the Lot. We got to talk to Will, Mike, Holiday and a few other guys who really made my day better. I asked Will about Josh and he actually said he saw him yesterday and that he's been looking better! We ended up staying there for about an hour and a half just talking and hanging out with the guys. Fredericka (who is actually called Tonette) had a [semi] conversation with her. Hana got to watch her stuff and Tonette told me that she got a stuffed animal tiger for "her man". Even though the conversations I had that day were very causal, they still made my day. I felt like the guys genuinely cared about what I had to say and I cared about them.

Jenny Sample

June 21, 2011 - Day 37

     Today we had morning prayer which was pretty awesome! I feel like the interns have a chance to bond in a spiritual way and ask God for help or thank God for how He's working in our lives. After Andy came and we had class until 1:00ish. When we finished we had lunch and decided to head over to St. Paul's to see who was there. We walked in and saw Julius, Six, Tony, Reggie, and Jennifer. Hana and I went over to talk to Jennifer.
     She wasn't feeling very good. She said that she thought she has diabetes because her knees hurt and she's been feeling very off lately. Then she began to tell us her story. She remembered she told her story to Allie- she remembered you!- and so she told us her story. She had been a prostitute for 18 years because she was addicted to coke, crack, dope, you name it. She was always looking to get that one "hit" no matter what the cost was- including a piece of her soul. She turned her life to Jesus when she asked a lady coming out of church for money. The lady said. "I know what you're going to do with the money as soon as I give it to you. I'm still going to give it to you but when are you going to stop playing with God?". As soon as Jennifer heard this her life did a complete 180. As she was going to the dope man's house she saw all the "evil spirits" and it was like God was telling her to stop and come to Him. She did.
     God completely removed the want of drugs and alcohol (even though it was hard at first). But she did it. And her goal is to be able to share her life to everyone because she doesn't want her life to worth nothing. Hana and I told her that she has already impacted our live and Allie's (because she shared Jennifer's story during one of our debriefing). When we told Jennifer this a huge smile came on her face. Before she told us of the story of how one man who only walked backed and forth for some reason had impacted people's lives and how she wanted to do the same. I told her that she did and I knew she felt so special. To think that her life values so much and that Jesus is working in her life- Jennifer felt wanted and she felt like she contributed to the community. And that's what everyone wants. They want to feel like they can contribute to the community, they want to feel included and loved. They want to feel like they are actually worth something. And for Jennifer- today was her day and I knew Jesus was smiling. :)
Jenny Sample

July 18, 2011 - Day 34

     "Love regardless what you see."

 "There's hope for the helpless and love for the loveless."

     SOTS!!!!! Today was a pretty awesome day. We had our usual Saturday on the Street and one of Lauren's friends, Ryan came. He got to meet Janice and Calvin which seemed to be new around the streets. I had seen them before but when we saw them on our way to the park we stopped and talked to them. Janice said that she had been here around 15 days and already been through a lot. Calvin then asked each of us how we became a part of Church on the Street. I told them that God slowly led me and pointed me towards this, even though at the time I only wanted to do what I wanted to do. But in the end, God helped open my eyes to what HE wanted me to do and I became a part of the intern team. I also told them that I was going through a hard time for a little while and when I began my work for COTS I knew that each person had their own story to tell. One of the things I learned (and am still learning) is that we mustn't judge people for the actions they've done- for we know not their story. God never judges us and never condemns us, so we must do the same. After talking to them for a bit we headed down to Renaissance and talked to several of my other friends.

     I got to talk to Mike and he showed me the drawings he makes- which are SO good! Before I knew it it was time to pack up and head over to St. Paul's. For lunch Lauren and I went to Firehouse and tried the spiciest hot sauce ever.. literally. Two days after I had it, the sauce somehow got under my fingernails and it kept burning.. life was rough. Later that night we had an intern bonding and ate dinner at Tindrum. Being with the rest of the interns was AWESOME. I am so thankful that I have such awesome people to surround me and that we can all share our lives and keep strengthening each other through God. It's great:)

Jenny Sample

    

July 17, 2011 - Day 33

     Today was the last day for the mission teams. We took them to the MLK National Site and after we went to Renaissance for a picnic. Being there I was able to talk to several of my friends who I haven't seen in a while and I got to meet someone new: Jeana. I met her while I was serving her food and she told me how she's been addicted to dope since she was 17 (and now she was in her late 20's). For some reason I didn't really know what to say but "Can I pray for you?". She nodded her head and so I prayed. Turns out that she prayed with Mama Jean as well and actually wanted to change her life and was put in a program. It was pretty amazing that that had happened in one day.
     Another thing was on our way to MLK we were waiting for a light to turn red when I saw a man approach our car (in the middle of an intersection) and ask me to lower the window. At first I kind of doubted myself (which I was ashamed of later) but I lowered the window. I was planning on him asking me for money... but instead he asked me for prayer. I was awestruck. I couldn't even begin to describe how I felt. I kind of felt horrible because I judged him. He asked if I could just pray for him... so I did. In the middle of the intersection. The light turned green right as he asked me for my Bible but he said that he'd let me go so as to not hold up the traffic. I was basically in tears that day because he affected me so. I hope all is well with him and that he knows that I will never forget that memory.
     After the picnic, we went on Parish walks around Central Park where we met Leon and he told us his story of how his wife is in Dublin with his kid. We then went to Renaissance but it began to storm so we drove to Peachtree Center to meet everyone there. Once there and after we had dinner we headed over to Woodruff and talked to some of them guys. I mainly just watched people play chess.
     We drove back to Rescue for the final goodbyes (which were quite sad for me). I really loved both mission teams. Y'all were awesome and set the bar pretty darn high for the rest of the teams coming in. You will always be in our prayers and know that y'all have a home here in Atlanta. xoxo
Jenny Sample

June 16, 2011 - Day 32

     Thursday oh Thursday! Today was a long but amazing day! We started off the day with a walk around part of the Belt Line with Big Jon. We parked up near Little Five and walked for a good 5 to 6 miles. On our walk we met Torch, a runaway who was on his way to Little Five. We walked through some of the bridges where many of the runaways sleep and we actually saw one of the last homeless forts- which you can see the pictures of it on the bottom of this page! Throughout the entire walk Big Jon told us about the Belt Line history. Once our long trek was over we went to Little Five and had lunch.... I had the BEST FALAFEL WRAP EVER!!!!! Seriously.. everyone try it. It's the Gyro place near Rag-O-Rama.. it's delish.
     After lunch we gathered the group and continued our way back to Rescue Atlanta where we had a bit of a rest to get ready for our block party. That block was probably one of the best experiences of my life. I was a little nervous at first because I thought we had driven to the wrong place (sorry team!) but we didn't! I then got nervous of who all was going to be there. But as soon as we pulled out the toys, a massive group of kids came towards us and the games began! I mainly got my hair braided (kind of) and gave piggy back rides for a few hours. I saw the mission team fall in love with the kids and knew that they were having a blast. Unfortunately we had to leave early because some of the older kids had a few tricks up their sleeves but in the end every single person from my mission team loved that block party!
     We had dinner at the Varsity.. mmm.... and we debriefed there. I always love talking to my group because they loved participating and giving different perspectives and stories. I loved seeing the huge transformation that they are also going through in just this short amount of time and I hope that they continue to grow when they  get back to TN... until then... we have one day left! TGIT (Thank goodness it's Thursday!)
Jenny Sample

June 15, 2011 - Day 31

"Life is full of beauty. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams."

- Ashley Smith

"Learn everything you can, anytime you can, from anyone you can- there will always come a time when you will be grateful you did."

- Sarah Caldwell

     Day 2 for my mission team! Again the interns got up early and met them for breakfast and prayer. Pastor Mehl was pretty awesome in his talk today- I like how he ends the talk with "today is a great day!". After our team went to the shelter (Taskforce) to help out. The team met Anita, Maurice, and everyone else. We all got into different groups and I was in the gardening group. We went to the roof and Clarence met us there. It was so awesome to see how much Clarence cared about the garden- the little, teeny tiny garden that was barely starting to grow. He had such joy talking to us on how to build a bed and putting dirt and watering the plants. He showed the tomatoes (all three of them haha) and took them out to give to Ms. Anita. We could only do so much since we didn't have any material to build things so Clarence to us to the Art Gallery. 

     The Art Gallery is a place where homeless people can paint and whenever they sell a painting they get 50% of the profits. We met James and he showed us around. He showed us his paintings (which were beyond amazing!) and he talked to us about them. Again we saw the passion, just like Clarence with his garden. It just affected us all so much to see that everyone wants to participate and contribute to something- no matter how small. For Clarence is his garden, for James is his paintings. My group got to experience this too. They saw how smart James is when he talked about Plato and different ways of looking at paintings. I can say that we all admired him there. James just kept talking and talking about the different paintings he had and you knew he felt proud and he felt special to be able to talk to us. I wondered how many people give him the opportunity to speak about his passion? 

     We then gathered the group and went to the Varsity.. nomnom.. I got a salad haha. After we went back to the shelter and our group found a place to sort clothes. It was pretty tranquil the entire time. We left at 3:10 and waited on the rest of the group. While we were, a drunk man comes up and starts talking to us. I felt so bad for him because here is a man that can quote verses from the Bible.. really well. But then he said how he knew his mom wished he was never born. It was because of that that he didn't want to get married and have kids- to prevent the generation from growing. This saddened me to think that it's because of this broken relationship that this man prevents his life from growing. He also said he's an alcoholic. Another result of his broken relationship with his family. This got me thinking.. he knows the Word extremely well- probably because of the several ministries that preach to him while providing free lunch or dinner- but do they take the time to see that he's hurting inside? That he yearns for attention and love because he thinks his own mother doesn't even love him? Many don't. I know I don't sometime.. that's why we have to take time and really think about this sometimes. Take time away  from our "busy" lives to love people. Sometimes it might feel like a job. But that's because we're not used to it. If you love to be loved imagine how the friendless and unloveable must feel. 

Jenny Sample

June 14, 2011 - Day 30

"Everything's good in the end. If it's not good then it's not the end."

"One can't solely rely on man for they are full of imperfections. Only leaning and trusting God will all wounds be healed."

     Day 1 for the mission teams! I was SO excited! We met up for breakfast at Rescue Atlanta and went to Stone Mountain. Andy talked to them about COTS and we began our trek up the SM! Before climbing, Andy told us that we must climb it as one community, helping each other on the way. As we were doing so, I loved seeing 2 different churches from different states, both uniting in God's love. Walking up the mountain was a sort of reflection and once we got to the top it was awesome. People connected how the walk up related to COTS. How life isn't a "sprint" but a "marathon" that we must all journey together, helping each other along the way. It was awesome hearing junior high and high school students saying this. It gave me hope for our future.

     Climbing down the mountain was for a time of reconciliation with one anther or God. I saw several people hold hands and cry with each other, pray with each other, and love with each other. I personally prayed to God to help heal my wounds and my afflictions and hate towards people I am close to. I know God heard my prayers because as soon as  I got to the bottom I felt such a peace overcome me. It was indescribable and I know everyone else felt it too. 

     After lunch at Cici's my team (with Hana and Andrew) went to Woodruff for the team to meet new friends. We let them split up into different groups and let them walk around. Within the hour we called them back so we could eat dinner at Underground. Hearing the different stories that several had already had put such joy to my heart because I knew they were here to create relationships. I knew they were here to become "friendly to the friendless", "love the unlovable", and "touch the untouchable". 

     After that we went on a parish walk to Peachtree and Pine where they got to meet Robert, William, Dr. Love, and a new friend Kenon. Kenon affected me the most though. When we were getting ready to leave I see him talking and introduce myself. He kinda calls us all out saying that we are bad people for trying to convince people to become and saved (basically what a lot of other ministries do) and to help them "accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior". Now don't get me wrong, that's awesome that people are trying to do that, but most of them aren't trying to be their friends first. As soon as they hear a person say the word Jesus or I am saved! they believe their job is done. What they miss is the broken relationship that those people still have- that's what we're here to do. And we tried doing that to Kenon.

     At first he told us his name was Booger. But when Josh, Grant, Sam and I kept talking to him he opened himself up to us. He said he loved basketball and spades. He even challenged us to a match (saying that he'd beat us... he is probably right!). But after our conversation that we thought was going to last 5 minutes... it ended up lasting 40. Kenon offered Grant a piece of carboard to sit down next to him and continue talking to him. They quickly became buddies and as we were leaving he said he wanted to see us again so we could play. He also said that the streets needed more people like us - that give them attention and listen to them and their likes and dislikes. That comfort them and just be friends with them. He thanked us for that. He then told us his real name.. Kenon, and before we left and said goodbye he said "God bless y'all". 

     Wow. What a change right? The answer is yes. From someone calling us out to someone telling us "God bless us".. yeah that's a big change. And it was just because we were friends with him. It was just because we treated them like humans, like regular people. Because that's real hard right? The answer is no. Andy said how COTS shouldn't even exist because we're supposed to being doing this as Christians already. But we don't. We miss that our neighbors all need loving and someone to care for. We miss is because the city hides it from us. We know the detours and ways around the "bad" parts of town, to help us ignore and shun the most vulnerable. What we should be doing is listening to them. Listening what God is speaking to us through them. And once we hear that- let us answer back. Who knows.. "we might be the answer to our own prayer."

Jenny Sample

June 13, 2011 - Day 29

"Faith means living with uncertainty- feeling your way through life, letting your heart guide you like a lantern in the dark." - Dan Millman

"The past is history, the future is a mystery but right now is a gift. That's why they call it the present."

     You never know where life may take you. You never know what may happen the next week, day, hour, minute. Life takes drastic turns. And fast. That's what happened to me and will continue to happen because guess what? That's life. This past weekend my life took a huge emotional turn. I thought for the worse, but in the end it was for the better. Today in the morning I did not want to get up. I wanted to stay asleep and refuse to talk to anyone. I forced myself out of bed and man, I am so happy I did.

     We decided to walk the streets for a few hours. We went up to Peachtree and Pine and saw Moe. While we were talking to Moe we saw Shamar. He was clean cut, new haircut and all! We all complimented him and you new he felt so proud and happy for himself- we were! We also knew he was paying attention to our conversation because he smiled.. and that was step 1 to make my day better.

     Step 2: We talked to Moe. Out of nowhere he hands us $5. Out of nowhere. Why? Because he wanted to bless us like we had been blessing him the last few days. He wanted us to buy ourselves a soda and he was even gonna give us change for the tax. We told him how he has blessed us that day and he just repeated himself in saying that we've helped improve his life for the better. He's working now and whenever he's not at Retreat... he's at work. He loves it and hopes to continue. I pray that he remains happy and following the path he's meant to follow. I also pray that we can continue to be lights to people who live in darkness, even when we don't even know when we are shining. I told Moe how he helped make my day and he smiled. :)

     Step 3: As soon as we finished talking to Moe, Angel came up and asked me if I could buy her a soda. What luck right? Of course I said yes and I bought her two. Now, Angel leads a rough life. Her entire life she's been in prostitution and for her to talk to people says a lot because she keeps to herself- I mean put yourself in her shoes. I loved being able to buy her a soda and knew that helped make her day (like she was making mine). I knew that I was able to show her true affection even if it was just through a carbonated beverage. 

     Step 4: I met new friends. Kenny- the guy I bought soda from. He's cool. Then Carwash. We talked about all our lives! He told me how I should be thankful for my parents and tell them I love them so much. I wanted to call mi mama y papa right there. (I love you guys so much!!!) I talked to him about my mom and he gave me a booklet to give to her and to give her a big ol' hug from Carwash, to my sister too haha. He said to appreciated my father since he works out of state. To always love him and treat him well ( love ya daddy!). This just helped make my day because it helped me value my life and be thankful for it. Gosh I am so fortunate. Carwash then told me his story and his broken relationship with his family- but he still loves 'em anyways. That's awesome right there.

     Step 5: Met 2 new homeless guys. James and Brandon. I mainly talked to James and for some reason he new my life... like literally inside and out. It was kinda creepy but dang, it was like God was speaking right through him!! He said that I should be focused on getting my relationship with God closer and to value what I have and what I lost. I knew that everything that was going on with me today were all signs from God- His signs for comforting me, loving me, and thanking me that I forced myself out of bed to make new friends and to have them affect my life.... Because they did.

     Later that night we went to Rescue Atlanta to meet our new mission teams. They are so amazing! Love them both! Got to talk to many of them and can't wait for what tomorrow will bring :)

God is good, we just gotta keep trusting Him.

Jenny Sample

June 9, 2011 - Day 25

"I once was blind but now I see."

     So this phrase is basically the story of how I feel right now. Today was the day of my surgery. Up until 3:45 I waited and did homework until it was time to drive up. When I did I only had to sit around for about an hour before my surgery began. I had a delicious chick-fil-a salad before to try and calm my nerves (which didn't really help) and had to read a 6 page summary of possible side effects and whatnot. Once all of that went down, the doctors had to re-check my eyes for any inconsistencies (which they found none!) and it was finally time.

     I got to wear a spiffy blue hat to cover my hair and blue netting things to cover my shoes. Jackie came with me to my surgery because I was nervous. I knew that I was going to be awake during my surgery so I was just freaking out. However, Jackie did an awesome job in relaxing me. Before I knew it, the doctor walked in and was the funniest man ever. He spoke to me in a British accent and told me that I had to relax and look at the red laser and that I would hear the laser and smell the laser but not feel the laser. When he told me everything it was time to go inside.

     Once inside, I got in a bed and it moved me like a roller coaster to where the laser was. A doctor put numbing drops in my eyes and the the doctor walked in. They played real loud music to distract me and began the surgery. I was holding Jackie's hand REAL tight the entire time. What I remember was the doctor putting drops in my eyes. Then a suction cup thing surrounded my eye while the doctor taped my eye open. Before I knew it I heard and smelled the laser and stared straight into it. After like a minute the doctor wiped my eye (which I could see him wiping my eye.. it was kind of creepy) and then he moved to the next. My left eye felt more pressure because I already knew the procedure. But it was the same thing. I squeezed my sister's hand, the suction cup squeezed my eye open and the laser did its thing. In literally less than five minutes the doctor finishes and asks me to stand up and walk into a room. I stand up and I can... see. It was CRAZY! Before the surgery I was talking to another doctor and everything I saw was blurry.. but now I could see my hands, feet, Jackie, and everything else. It was too good to be true:) 

     The doctor put more drops in me eyes and I was sent home. My eyes were real water-y and I couldn't stop crying (from the happiness and from the tears lol) and when I got home I passed out. That is everything that happened that day. No more glasses or contacts. Ever. God is good:) Thanks to everyone who kept me in their thoughts and prayers:)

Jenny Sample

June 8, 2011 - Day 24

     OK team I am so sorry for slacking.. I have a good excuse.. I GOT SURGERY DONE YAY! I will explain how it went on my next day:)
     So on Wednesday we had prayer time at Savannah Suites with the guys because at 10 we volunteered at Task Force (otherwise known as "The Shelter"). Now, once we got there we were introduced to some main people and were given a tour of the place. We went to the common area where most of the guys hang out and saw a few of the guys we know. Then we went to the roof because one of the new plans is to build a garden (which was looking pretty good!). During the time that we were talking with people we also found out that the government is trying to have them give the building up. Task Force has supposedly been threatened and rumors have been spread about the money being dumped in a big black hole. What we found out, however, is that the city actually took away part of their budget. They started with a few million and then had to go to $300,000 asap. Now, they hardly have anything. What we did notice though was the awesome effort that everyone puts in to help those around us.
     I helped man the desk to help people with Homeless Verification Letters, referrals, and everything else. Maurice, the man who was with us, talked to us throughout the entire time and helped me gains a perspective on how things work at the shelter. Basically a lot of ministries recommend the shelter to this guys living on the streets and no matter what, they help them. I got to meet a guy named Jimmy who actually ran away from the hospital and found his was here so that he could be helped. I also met another guy, Bruce, who after 10 years of living on the streets for committing a felony, has yet to be able to get an ID. That's what the shelter is here to do, help them all.
     We stayed till four and then went back to the house where Lauren and I met up with my big big, Meghan at Evo's (most delicious healthy place ever!). After my mom picked me up to head home and get ready for my surgery! ahhh.
Jenny Sample

June 7, 2011 - Day 23

"Today give a stranger one of your smiles. It might be the only sunshine he sees all day." 

- Quoted in P.S. I Love You    

"Smiling is infectious,

You can catch it like the flu.

Someone smiled at me,

And I started smiling too." - Author Unknown

"A friendly look, a kindly smile, one good act, and life's worthwhile." -Author Unknown

 
   Today was a Retreat from the Street day! I love those days. Every time I feel like I learn something new. For example: I got to meet Charles, who was struggling with something and we were able to talk about it. Then during lunch I was with Shamar. Shamar has a type of disability and was talking/cussing while he was eating his lunch. Eating with Shamar helped me realize just how much I love my job. We just finished reading a book called Living Gently in a Violent World, where we are all meant to love one another no matter the disability or "weakness" that one may have. Shamar was just one example where I saw God shining through him because throughout the entire time that he was speaking to himself he was mentioning Jesus and God and that (whoever he was talking to) shouldn't act that way in Jesus' house. I thought that was Shamar's way of saying that he does acknowledge God. This reminded me of the book because Vanier talks about the foundation of L'Arche and how sometimes we are just meant to suffer with one another... That's what I did with Shamar. I was with him and tried talking to him and even though he might not have heard me, I knew he knew that I was there. How do you ask? Because he mentioned me while he was talking to his "friend". So today I would like to pray for Shamar. I pray that he remains with God and for people to always have patience with everyone because you never know just what one smile might accomplish.
Jenny Sample

June 6, 2011 - Day 22

"God is the Lord of all times."

Psalm 41 (Because it is really super duper awesome)

     So today was a Woodruff Park day. I'd like to say it was fairly "chill", except for the fact that I am horrible in chess. I love to watch it, but when it comes to playing.. I lack skill. So the first time I played... I got destroyed. The second time I played, the guys took it easy on me and taught me how to play. And when I mean "taught me how to play", I mean they basically played for me. I need to practice haha. Once 1:30 hit we all went to Subway for lunch. Numnum. We all passed Jesse who was talking to Jennifer and Hana said hi but she didn't respond. At Subway, Jesse was telling us how Jennifer is still struggling with getting over what had happened a week ago. She said that she doesn't want to be mad but it's hard for her to. Not gonna lie, I got a little frustrated (and the interns can probably agree that I seemed flustered). I just thought... well if she doesn't want to be mad why does she still ignore us?? I didn't do/say anything and I try to talk to her and she is still mad at me even though she "forgave" me?! I was a little upset. But Jesse talked about how Jennifer was not only upset at us, but at the fact that she is homeless and she's tired of it all. It kind of hit me there... how little things can build up and how one single event can break the camel's back. That's happened several times to me.. So it can happen to Jennifer too. So I realized I had no reason to have negative feelings towards her.. But like Andy said, we have to continually love our neighbor. 

      After that, we went to Savannah Suites and then to our house to meet with Andy at 3. We were going to talk about the Mission Teams coming in. Gary came with us. It seemed like he had a stressful day and I can only ask that you pray for him so that the Lord can continue to give him strength and know that he does what he does for a reason and that, even though people might not express how he's changed their lives, it happens. For example: He has helped me view my life differently, and I thank him for that. Thanks Gary!!!

     After we talked about the Mission Teams, Hana and I went to CCF for Devo Dinner where I got to see many of my long lost friends. I miss you guys:) It was absolutely wonderful and I realized just how lucky I am to have such awesome people in my life. I then went to go get coffee (or a green tea frapuccino!) with Callie. We talked about life and our struggles and lemme tell ya how awesome it was! Whenever I talk to her, my life just brightens and I just see the love that God really has for us. We specifically talked about trusting God with our lives because most of the time we all want to take control. When I got back and began reading a new book, The Meaning of the City, the author specifically began talking about that. He talked about how Cain was the first man who created the first city and it was to get away from God. "Cain was so completely dissatisfied with the security granted to him by God, and so he searches out his own security... [but] his security can only be found in God." It then goes to say that Cain continues to go farther from God. But the "wrong road" that he is taking "does not lead further from God, but "to the mirages of man's heart because it leads to temporary satisfaction of thirst for eternity and rest." This really called out to me because everyone feels like this sooner or later- I know I did. But when we realize that during that entire time, God is always there, then we find that peace and can put the anger and resent aside to love one another.

     That's what Church on the Street is here to do; to lead people off the "wrong road" and unto the "right one" by our actions in treating our most vulnerable neighbor with love. Because it is with actions that people can see God's love and care for us. Everyone is called to love and to be loved, especially through gentleness.

Jenny Sample

June 4, 2011 - Day 20

"A friend is one of the nicest things you can have, and one of the best things you can be."

- Douglas Pagels

"Strangers are just friends waiting to happen." - Rod McKuen

"A friend can tell you things you don't want to tell yourself." - Francis Ward Weller

     Saturday on the Street (SOTS!). We all gathered in St. Paul's and got ready to walk to Renaissance Park for a very eventful day. Ainsley, Andy's daughter, came and I got to play with her for most of the time. When we got to the park, we met up with several of our friends. This Saturday I became closer friends with Ainsley:) We got to run around and sprinkle pixie dust on each other so we could fly to Stone Mountain and back to the Park. That was pretty eventful. After we flew to Stone Mountain, she taught me how to play hopscotch and Jamaica joined us as well! I got to introduce Ainsley to several of the people there, like Vinny, Eric, Jamaica, and Eddy! She was a little shy at first but she was so polite and always said hi. It just puts a smile on my face when I see that even girls like Ainsley enjoy the presence of everyone. 

     The second quote suited me very well for today because some of the people I met at the park were strangers, in fact, I am constantly meeting strangers! But the way Church on the Street and everyone else should view meeting strangers is to view them as "friends waiting to happen". You never know where the conversation might take you. Who knows, it might change your life, like it has done to me. I thought of that while I was playing with Ainsley and that's one of the reason why I kept introducing her to more people. Then Eric and I got to talk about God for a while and that was awesome! I love talking about God and sharing my faith and being able to say what I believe in and have an awesome conversation about it, well that is pretty spiffy. 

     After SOTS was over, a few of us went back to the park and had food that another ministry was cooking for the yearly community picnic- it was really good! After that, Lauren, Andrew, and I went to Little Five and just looked around. It was a relaxing ending to an eventful day:)

Jenny Sample