May 31, 2011 - Day 16

"Patience and fortitude conquer all things." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

"The keys to patience are acceptance and faith. Accept things as they are, and look realistically at the world around you. Have faith in yourself and in the direction you have chosen." - Ralph Martson

     Boy can I relate to these quotes today. After my interview with Delta, Andy took us to the Varsity and we discussed the book we're currently reading, Exclusion & Embrace. That was pretty nice, minus eating at the Varsity because it gave me a stomach ache for the rest of the day:/ After we went to Atlanta Mission where we met Aaron who showed us around the place. He currently works there and he was really cool! When we finished, we all decided to go to the Lot for a little bit... which is where much patience was needed. 

     Fredericka saw us and, because she is usually not the happiest of people, did her daily screaming. I didn't pay much attention to it until Mother Theresa (another homeless woman) came and was asking for some water. Since Andrew had an extra water bottle, he gave it to her.. but apparently that didn't please Fredericka. She got real upset with us and cussed and got "all up in our faces" and told us how we only pick on a few to talk to and that we choose favorites. She then continued screaming at us and demanded that she get another pair of socks. Jesse told her that she already got 2 pair but she got up in his face and demanded for another one, which he gave to her. She cussed him and walked away. Jesse then left and when he did Fredericka continued screaming at us. I am not gonna lie... my patience was dwindling real fast. 

     Here is a woman who, no matter how much I want to talk to her, won't talk to me but will only cuss at me. Here is a woman who has so much hatred in her that when I look into her eyes I sincerely see it. Part of me just wanted to tell her why she is so angry all the time but all I could say was that we already gave her socks. She just continued ranting and I let her be. I was really flustered then but then got to thinking... I wonder how her life is or was in the past? What made her become such a bitter person? Before someone becomes a drug addict, alcoholic, or homeless, they were still just... people. And that's how I had to treat her.. like any other person. So I just walked passed her, even though I really wanted to talk to her, and went to talk with Lauren and my new friend, Rodney. 

     He told me about his life, how he was shot and has a grandson but never sees him. He told me how he was a drug dealer but stopped and now he believes that he has to face the consequences. I just felt like hugging him. All these people have such different stories. And they all ended up here, like Rodney and Fredericka. Rodney said that he wasn't planning on being homeless. That since he began dealing drugs and involved his girlfriend, he soon got himself into some trouble and ended up on the streets. Goodness, that reminds me of what Kenny told me awhile ago: Those eyes that you're looking at could be your eyes in the future. Such a true statement. We never know what might happen in the future, I pray that God continues to light my path and guide me towards the right direction. But I also pray for Him to continue to humble myself and others, because in an instant anyone's life can change.

Please pray for Fredericka,

Jenny Sample

May 30, 2011 - Day 15

**Today please keep Six in your prayers because he had a stroke and is in Grady Memorial Hospital**

     Today we had our daily prayer time and headed over to St. Paul's for Retreat on the Street because they were opened even though most of the other ministries were closed. There, I got to talk to Six and he told me most of his past. He was part of a Motorcycle Gang since he was a little boy where they taught him how to shoot (and apparently how to miss) and since his dad was part of the game he didn't have to be a prospect, but was automatically "initiated". He quickly earned the nickname "Ice cube" because he didn't care if someone lived, got hurt, or died.  He always seeked revenge and always found it. He also told me of his 6 murder charges (all of which can be found on his video on the right of this page or on the Beer for Breakfast website!). After we had talked, we began bending spoons so that he could make us rings! It was pretty spiffy. I really enjoyed talking to Six because even though I already kinda know him, he just told me his life, no questions asked. I was first a little intimidated to ask him blunt questions but realized that he isn't ashamed anymore; quite the opposite actually! He wants to talk to teens in high school or college and talk about his life so that he can impact our generation. PLEASE watch his video.. it definitely made me tear up. 

     What also makes me tear up is how he is in the hospital... right now. Please pray for him. It's crazy to think how just today I was talking and bending spoons with him and now he is in the ER because of a stroke. Keep him in your prayers, and hopefully tomorrow we will all visit him to see how he is doing. Other than that  I got to spend time with the Odle's! We went to dinner with Andrew and Lauren and then went to their house (just me and Lauren) so I could print something for my interview tomorrow. But we also played with Ainsley and it was super fun :) She showed us all her stuffed animals and I got to read her a Curious George book! Now I am just preparing for my interview tomorrow.. please pray for me to see how it goes! I am so nervous! But let God do His thing because in the end, He knows what's best for me. 

Jenny Sample

March 28, 2011 - Day 13

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." - Galatians 6:9

   

     Today was Saturday on the Street! One of my friends, Sarah, came since she finished her 3rd year in the Coast Guard and I was so happy to see her there. I also got to meet Linda, which was pretty awesome as well (there's pictures of all of us in the bottom of my page). I introduced Sarah to everyone, like Six, Mike, and Tony, and then we all made our way to Renaissance Park. Once we got there we set up and saw Jennifer with her friend Sheldon. I met him and Sarah and I talked to him and later I played a chess with Andrew, the other intern. I also got to see a few other familiar faces like Eric, and it was nice to catch up. We all gathered around the chess area and Jennifer and I talked. She really enjoyed the snow cones.. haha.
     I also taught Jimmy how to make snow cones and he liked it so much. He had such a big smile on his face:) Being able to see everyone mingle and talk together just helped me further understand why I decided to take this internship; to be able to see such a variety of people in such a little space just warmed my heart. I then began talking to another man who told me that someone had been looking for me throughout the week. I asked who it was and he told me it was that "tall white boy". I knew it was Josh and I asked about him and he told me that he's no longer staying at the shelter, but supposedly at Atlanta Union Mission. I was pretty happy to hear that but then the man told me that sometimes people get kicked out and that Josh might've been one of them. So I pray that he's OK and maybe one day I'll be able to see him.
     Please also keep Rachel in your prayers as she's struggling with staying clean. Also pray for JB and Steven; JB graduated four months of rehab on Wednesday and Steven is doing intake on rehab right now! It is awesome to see how, slowly but surely, God is working in people's lives! Till then.. keep praying:)
Jenny Sample

May 27, 2010 - Day 12

"Hopelessness leads to homelessness."

"Homelessness is the state of life of hopelessness."

"Thoughts become actions and actions become habits."

"You may be the last Jesus someone sees." 

     Today Andy took us to Little Five to have lunch and Gus, the Rainbow Kid, surprised us by being there! He remembered us all and convinced us to stay and listen to him play a song on the guitar. He was pretty darn good! After, we went to an Indian restaurant where, at first, I wanted a salad but they ran out of cucumbers. So I was just watching everyone eat when our waiter gives me a bowl of soup. I told him that I never ordered anything but he said he wanted to give it to me- which absolutely made my day! He was so sweet and I couldn't thank him enough. I got free soup from a very sweet guy:)
     After lunch, Andy dropped us off at Hurt Park where I wanted to have time for myself. I was feeling a little funky so I walked around and then found myself sitting next to Adam, who was from Ethiopia. We carried a small conversation for a while and then we began talking about our lives and where we were born. I told him I was born in Mexico and that I love my family there and I told him the death of my grandfather and automatically he could relate to me because all his family is still in Ethiopia, where there is a war against 2 of the tribes there- one being his father's. He told me about the 4 major tribes and how 2 of them are in a war over his father's land -Aromia. He also told me about the monetary aid that the U.S. has given to Ethiopia (that's supposed to go towards ending things with Somalia) but instead goes towards the Northern tribe to keep Aromia's tribe in place. but Adam said he had hope that they would be able to become they're own state sometime and that he'd be able to see his family in 5 years. He seemed so positive and it was just so awesome to talk to him! He told me that he also really enjoyed talking to me because he could talk to me about his tribes and family- something that he hasn't been able to do in awhile. I was happy:)
     Then I met up with Hana, Andrew, Lauren, and Ed and we all walked to Woodruff Park where I saw my friend Chris and Easy. We each played chess (and I was horrible!) and we watched them play chess. Lauren and I might've gotten invited to go get drinks from 2 guys... haha and then one of them gave me his number because he wanted to go on a date with me and make me dinner at his place.. haha. Then we all went to the Lot where we all saw Will and talked to him. I asked him if he knew anything of Josh and last he heard, he saw Josh get out of a truck (supposedly some relatives), so I keep praying that all is well with him!
     Tomorrow is Saturday on the Street and I'm really excited for that, so we'll see what happens.
Jenny Sample

May 26, 2011 - Day 11

"God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way."

-Please pray for our friends as they endure this not-so-fun thunderstorm.

     Today Andy decided to take us all to Atlanta Union Mission for lunch. Before that we had class (where I had 2 Krispy Kreme donuts... I know :/ ) so as I was walking over there, I wasn't too hungry. We got there and walked in and I saw the food... Now I'll be honest.. it did not look appetizing. So since I wasn't hungry I was going to use that as my excuse for not eating, but then I decided to give it a shot. I realized that many of the people here eat this on a daily routine, if they find something like that. The food consisted of a mixture of macaroni noodles with rice, some type of vegetable, and some type of meat. Then they gave us stale potato chips and a piece of bread (so definitely my share of carbs for the day). We all walked over to a table and we sat down and I met Cleo. Before meeting Cleo, I was just feeling completely judgmental with how picky I was being with the food. When Cleo and I started talking, he told me that he knew the food wasn't good.. he actually said, "the food has potential.. to be something".
     I realized just how lucky I am that I don't have to eat like that everyday and then finished all my food. It was more an experience for myself to see how my friends on the street eat, even with all the food they really do have! Whenever I talk to Brandy she gets by with chocolates, smuckers grilled cheeses, and food that others give her. I couldn't imagine surviving like that, which makes me love what I'm doing even more. Today, Atlanta also decided to unleash Hell as rain!
    Us, interns went to the Lot for a little while to see if we could talk to some of our buds when literally out of nowhere it starts downpouring.. we luckily made it to Savannah Suites where Jesse took us back to our house, but it got me thinking of Rachel, Dr. Love, and everyone else. If we got drenched, how are they? Where are they now? I pray that they are somewhere safe and hopefully dry. I pray that the Lord watches over all of them. Whenever it rains, we often complain of how dangerous it is outside and how we get wet or ruin our Uggs (which I know from experience), but we never really think about how those who live on the street survive. I saw as I was running for my life away from the rain, that many of them had nowhere to go. They stayed under trees and tried keeping their stuff dry- but what about the thunder and lightning? Driving back to our place I saw 2 trees knocked out, so I can only imagine many more- and it's only been an hour or so.
     All of this makes me realize just how fortunate we really are and just how everyone should become a part of this community, because we are all equal and we all deserve a chance.
Jenny Sample

May 25, 2011 - Day 10

"We have not because we ask not."

"Hope in the Lord. Love in the Lord. Trust in the Lord."

     Today was what I would call interesting... to say the least. Us, interns gathered at 9 am for our daily morning prayer and decided to go to Retreat on the Street. Once we got there, Gary had Prayer Time where we all got to see Steven confess to everything he did and decide to make major changes in his life. He admitted that he manipulated many people in the room for his own entertainment and that he knows what everybody is going through and that just like him, they can make a change in their lives. It was pretty darn awesome to hear that. 

     After that we had Bible Study. Now that was pretty darn awesome as well. I spoke with Gary later who told me he didn't know where that Bible Study came from because he didn't even plan anything out. That's spiffy. He mostly concentrated on Isaiah 30:1-22. Before Bible Study started he told everyone a verse that said "We have not because we ask not". Isaiah 30:1-6 speaks of the people who rely on the "Pharisees" and not on God and Gary connected it with our lives and how we place our attention on carrying riches to "a people good for nothing" (Isaiah 30:6-7). He gave part of his life story to us and how he used drugs. I feel like that really spoke to many of the people there because they all deal with carrying riches to those people. Gary later read Isaiah 30:10-11 and how people manipulate each other and "prophesize" to get what they want or to get people what they want to hear. I knew of a few who had done that already so I knew that they were all listening. It was when Gary read Isaiah 30:20-22 that many really listened. It talks about how when we see the "Teacher", our eyes, mouth,s and ears will open and we will throw away all our "silver-plated idols" and "gold-covered images". Gary told everyone that that is where he is today and that everyone in this room could also be there. 

      Once Bible Study ended, a guy named Gus walked in and I began talking to him. I found out that he is a Rainbow kid (a type of traveling artist) and he came to Atlanta to find his girlfriend (who is 99% lesbian but Gus is 1% lucky to be with her haha) so that he can hitch a ride all the way to Washington for the National gathering. We all talked for awhile and he was pretty cool and we ended up walking him to Piedmont Park. He gave me his email (which I can't really read his handwriting haha) and his website soo we'll see how that goes! Today we finished pretty early and now I get to kinda chill which is nice. Can't wait to see what tomorrow brings:)

Jenny Sample

May 24, 2011 - Day 9

    "God understands our prayers even when we can’t find the words to say them." – Author Unknown

The Lord replied, “The years when you have seen only one set of footprints, my child, is when I carried you.”

       Today we had class in the morning and we then went over to Retreat on the Street where we got there as Bible Study ended so we just hung out with everyone. I talked to Hana, JB, and Steven for a bit when we got lunch and Jim began talking about one of his past experiences. He talked about going on a boat with his wife and how he loved the speed and adrenaline but when he let his wife take control, the boat lost control and almost ended both of their lives. He compared that to his past experience in using drugs in that he took those he loved on dangerous, adrenaline-filled "adventures" and came out with unlikely consequences. Some of those he loved ended up getting hurt because he invited them to do something unnecessary that he considered "fun". Jim sharing his story really opened my eyes and helped me realize just how everyone has a story and how we all go through problems that we overcome (which Jim did and now has a lovely family!)
      After Jim shared his story, I began talking to Steven where he told me about his broken relationship with his family. Several times he tried working things out but he got to a point where he just doesn't want to have anything to do with them; he wants to live in isolation and have time to find himself and find out what God wants in his life. He also told me how he's struggled with meth for a few months but when he got out of it, those 9 months that he isolated himself from his family were "the best months of [his] life". He also told me how he doesn't want to attach himself to anyone because he's sick of getting hurt. This sounded strangely familiar and I was praying the entire time for God to help me in what I needed to say. But he kept on talking and just as he was about to get up and leave I told him how during all those times that he feels alone, God is with him.
      This seemed to peak his interest and sat down and I told him about the footsteps in the sand. When I was talking, I saw myself in him. All the crap that I've been through came flashing back at me and it was like I was talking to myself but I was facing Steven. I told him how my first semester was full of hurt and full of things I couldn't take back but I wish I could. That I couldn't forgive myself and I couldn't imagine God forgiving me. I struggled for it for the longest time but it was when I finally felt like I had nothing to give that I gave it all to God. That was the best decision of my life. Since then I was able to put it all in the past and know that God did things for a reason. And throughout all the hurt and loneliness that I've felt, I knew that Jesus was right behind me, listening to my cries and praying for me. All this I told Steven. Once I finished he completely opened himself up to me and told me about his entire family situation, how his relationship with his father was poor but ended well, how his father passed away and his mother and sister didn't care. How he used drugs and drinking to ease the pain but it ended up causing him greater pain. But that he finally realized he wants to end this vicious cycle and have a life. I told him that he should be proud of himself to admit to all he's done and to all his past because many people never do. I could tell as soon as I said that, that he appreciated me saying that.
     Most of the time people need to feel appreciated. And I think that's what Steven needed. He also needed someone to help push him to the right way. Just like JB changed his life and is helping to change Steven's, Steven is slowly realizing that he needs to do some of the pushing himself. I prayed to God last night to help me with words and with helping people. I know God put Steven in my life today to help face myself in all the pain I went through and the pain that Steven is/was going through. Goodness God works in mysterious ways.
     At about 3 we went to the Lot and didn't see anyone there so we all went to my place and read for a bit. At 6 we went back to the Lot and I was expecting to see Josh but never did. I don't know if it's because of the conversation we had yesterday or because he forgot... but I missed that kid. He asked me yesterday if I was gonna be here today and I said yes. So hopefully he just forgot. I pray that everything continues to go well with him. I also pray for God to continue guiding us interns, especially to have patience.
Jenny Sample

May 23, 2011 - Day 8

"We too have been hurt and cry out our pain, our disappointments, our incapacity to relate, our aggressiveness and anger. We can cry out as if in a void or we can cry out to God." (pg 125)

"God is meek and gentle of heart so that we need not be frightened to open up." (pg 126)

"Only God can answer fully our cry for communion and call us to live in communion with one another." (pg 127)

"It is only through a gift of the Holy Spirit that we can allow ourselves to become open and vulnerable and can be faithful to a communion of hearts with another." (pg 127)

      Oh goodness today was definitely not only a physically wearing day, but emotionally and mentally. We started out the day in prayer (awesome as always, especially Psalm 56 and 57). We then went to Woodruff park and played chess with some of the guys. As soon as we walked into the area, Chris, a guy I have cheered on and won 2 times!, remembered me and greeted me. We played chess for a while and then I played chess with Larry who taught me well. After that we had lunch and proceeded to the Lot where we met up with our old friends. As we were waiting to cross the street, I saw Josh and he saw me and we began hanging out. That is when things got intense. We just started talking about our days and Josh told me how Sunday night he walked around Atlanta the entire time and didn't get back until 5:30 am. He went all the way past Tech and back so he didn't get much sleep. Then he wanted to draw but I didn't have a pen so he went inside, grabbed one, and came back to draw. I sat next to Brandy and talked to her and Josh. 

      We began playing music and one of the songs was "Sheep go to Heaven" by Cake. I just finished looking at the music video and I understood what Josh was saying to me earlier today. He said he was a sheepgoat and that he's neither going to Heaven or Hell. He also said that he is the son of Lucifer and that he knows that he shouldn't have been born. He was frustrated to think that he couldn't survive on an $8 an hour job because that couldn't support renting an apartment that is safe here in Atlanta. He said how life isn't the same as a child than as a 22 year old and how he can't support himself because he has no money. Listening in on our conversation was a guy named Antoine who asked if he had parents. Josh said yes but that they wouldn't support him. Antoine, who was so wise, told him that he should go back to his parents because there is always the hope of making up. Josh said that that wasn't likely to happen but Antoine told him that he lost his parents so he wishes he could do that. That kinda hit Josh but even then he lost sight of the conversation. 

      Everytime we talked, we always lost track of the conversation we had because he would always forget what we were talking about. He said he had done drugs since he was 13 and has been caught many times since then. I know that drugs have probably affected his way of thinking and it just breaks my heart. He went to jail for 3 years because of burglary because he ran away from home and since then he's been homeless. He has a broken relationship with his parents and with God. I never knew how complicated things were until today. Antoine made a good point of trying to reconnect with his parents, but I don't think Josh understood it. So I asked if I could speak to him privately. 

      We began talking about everything. I don't even know where to begin. I told him that he can get out of where he is if he really wants to. That he doesn't necessarily have to depend on an "$8 per hour" salary to live. I told him that he still has a chance to reconnect with his parents- like Antoine said.. he still HAS parents. I also told him that I was meant to be here this summer to be friends with Josh, and he agreed, but that he wasn't supposed to be born. I told him how I didn't understand and he didn't understand either. He told me that he also doesn't know how to say what he is thinking outloud. I told him to give it a try and he did but he changed topic very easily. He then asked me what "lost" meant. I told him it was not knowing where you are, who you are, or what you believe in. He said that's what he is. I then told him about the passage where Jesus finds the lost lamb... and how He finds everyone. He then asked me about God. 

      He asked whether or not God is a man or a woman and I responded that He is universal and a Father who looks out for all his children that live on Earth. He didn't understand and got a little upset at God and that he doesn't like it because "all the women go to him". He believes that there should be a guy god and a girl god to where the men go to the girl and the girls go to the men. But before that he said he believed in many gods. He also said how he has been in the Lot in his past life. Then he switched topics to say that he wants to be an art teacher when he grows up so he can let them know how to draw what they want to draw. He then told me how he doesn't know why he is here and I told him that everything happens for a reason, whether it's to think about your past actions or to figure out what you want to do with your life- but that he can figure it out, and he can have a life besides the shelter. But he didn't understand because he's convinced that since he's been here in his past life that he will always remain here. Dear Lord, I don't know what to do. I feel useless. 

      He talked to me about his family and said I would like his dad because "he's cool" but he contradicted himself when he said  his parents didn't want him. Then he saw my ring and asked if he could see it. I told him that it's my favorite ring because it's to remind me to never go back to how I was before and to always remind me that God is working in my life. He liked that and we continued talking. He also believes that parents (older people) are of a different type and that we are a different type. I told him that we are all humans and are all equal but he didn't seem to understand that. 

      Dear Lord, I need the gift of speech. I usually am pretty good at saying how I feel and being able to relate it with my faith, but this is different. Josh doesn't really know what to believe in because of the life that he has gone through- and he is only 22. I need patience to help him through this. I want to be able to show the love of God through my actions in being there for him, being that stable friendship that so many people lack. But I also need to know that I can't take control of his life, only God can. But GOSH it is so frustrating and I feel completely and utterly helpless. I know that God worked miracles in my life as soon as I let go and gave it all to God. But it's so hard letting go of someone that I care for and want to see the best happen for him when he is so lost and confused- like the sheep that is lost from Jesus. I want Josh to know that God is in everything and that we must trust Him, but how can I tell him without seeming like the hundreds of other ministries who randomly come and visit them to hand out food and shove religion down their throat? 

      I don't want to be that person. I want to be his friend. I want to see his relationship with his parents grow, and most of all his relationship with God grow. I know that God is waiting for him with open arms and I just pray that one day he will run towards Him. I just feel useless because I don't know what to do. I'm planning on going tomorrow and continue talking to him, but Lord, I need the Holy Spirit to guide me throughout this entire time. Just to know what to say and what to do and to continue being there for him. Please continue praying. Sorry for the super long blog haha.

Jenny Sample

May 22, 2011 - Day 7

"We have to accept sometimes that there are things we cannot yet understand." (pg 107)

"Life is a question of gradual growth." (pg 111)

"To grow in maturity is to grow in this acceptance of reality; no longer take refuge in illusions. It is to give thanks for what we have instead of weeping over what we have not." (pg 113)

"We have difficulty living in the present moment, trusting in the presence of God  in the here and now and giving thanks." (pg 113)

      Today I went to church with my parents and sister and really loved spending time with them. We got to reconnect and I was able to share my experiences over the past week. After, they dropped me off at Jason's Deli where I met up with Gary, the interns, and several people who attended the service at St. Paul's. I sat next to Six and got to talk about our lovely Hispanic mothers and their home-made cooking! Later JB came and I was able to really connect with him and tell him about how naive I felt before starting my internship. I am a Tech student and literally live in a bubble. I have been my entire life. But living in the city opened my eyes to reality, just five blocks from Tech! It also helped me really become a part of this community, my community. To reach out to the people and vice versa. Talking to everyone at Jason's Deli only helped me more to see everyone equally, just as God intended us too. Like I said, living in a bubble, I usually judged many people. I was one of those people who looked the other way when I ran or walked through the streets and saw someone I didn't recognize. But today at Jason's, everyone was so different, each with different stories, and we all bonded as a community. I loved that. After lunch, I bonded with my roomie, Lauren, and went to Ikea to look for a table and returned to our humble abode where we read. I'd like to say today was a relaxing day and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Jenny Sample

May 21, 2011 - Day 6

"We do not enter the Kingdom of God by becoming more knowledgeable, more influential, more powerful; but by becoming more humble, more gentle, more loving." (pg 85)

"Those that are blessed are not those who succeed "religiously" but those who keep trusting even as they live the experience of failure." (pg 93)

     Wow. It's already Day 6. I can't even begin to describe how much I've learned throughout this week. Today we went to Retreat on the Street to gather things for Saturday on the Street because we celebrated everyone who had/has a birthday in May. We had snow cones and birthday cake. A lot of people came and I played chess and checkers with a few guys named Reggie and JB. This entire time we just hung out and talked about each others' days. It was very relaxing. After that I read for a little bit and all of us interns went to the Lot to hang out with our new friends. I met some more people, like Trey, Will, Marcus, and Mark. Mark especially touched me. He writes poems. And DANG are those poems good. I recorded him. It's called "Sacrifice," a poem by the Walk in Revelation and Touch of Thought Poetry, LLC.

May 20, 2011 - Day 5

"We have to find an inner wholeness, no longer to deny or ignore our wounds but to welcome them and to discover the presence of God in these very places of our own weakness." (pg 65)

"But I tell you who are listening: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who treat you badly." (Lk 6:27-28)

"To forgive is to rediscover the bonds that bind us together. We are no longer seperate from each other, we are one in God." (pg 79)

       Today we had class. After we all walked to Centennial and met Roy who does Saturday on the Streets. We had lunch and then went to Retreat from the Street to help organize things. Once all that was done we went back to the Lot and talked to everyone again. This time I talked to Brandy, Josh, and a few others. I met Hunt who asked me why I was here and I told him "because I like hanging out with y'all." He was COMPLETELY shocked and even called some of his friends over so I could repeat it again. So I did. He told me that he hasn't heard that yet and it just made me realize how even those who live on the streets know that they're treated like objects. But being with them gave them a break to be themselves, goof around, and everyone just be normal. Josh wanted to draw again so he asked me what he should draw. I told him to draw a penguin and he began to. Throughout the entire time we talked about his life. I asked him what he thought of jail and he said "it was fun." I asked why and he said he met cool people. 

"Would you go back to jail?"

"No. If I had the chance to go back into the past and do it all over again, I would never want to go back to jail. I don't want to be out on the streets anymore. I don't want to be homeless." 

       When he said that, it touched my heart. That's when it hit me. No one wants to be homeless. No one has a dream that when they grow up they want to live out on the streets. But it happens. What we have to realize is that it's because of broken relationships that people become homeless. Those who live on the streets usually don't have good relationships with their parents or siblings, or friends, or land lord. They have nowhere to turn to and no one to confide in. That's what we're here for. Like Retreat from the Street where people can walk in and escape the troubles of their everyday life, us interns are here to try and restore these broken relationships. But how? By treating them like normal people. By talking to them instead of turning around and pretending they're not there. By interacting with them instead of randomly giving them sandwiches or clothes and then saying "my job here is done." These people need some sort of trust that remains stable. We're here to provide that. By treating them like we would any other person, we remove the barrier of inequality and begin uniting a broken community, which is exactly what God wants us to do all the time. 

      Talking to Josh did that. We listened to music and goodness that put the biggest smile on his face. He told me that he hasn't listened to music in a long time. How we take some things for granted. He had to leave but he said he would finish the drawing of the penguin for me. I couldn't ask for anywhere else that I'd rather be.

Jenny Sample

May 19, 2011 - Day 4

"Each one of us, with our personal stories, is called to grown in love." (pg 58)

"When we love someone, we give life to that person. When we love, we trust, and reveal to people their value, their beauty, and their capacity to give life to others." (pg 59)

"The only thing that matters is that we be truthful, that we do not let ourselves be governed by lies and by illusion." (pg 61)    

      Today was an early day. We had to be ready by 8am so we could head to Retreat from the Street which is a place that's open Monday-Friday from 7am-3:30pm for anyone to walk in and literally retreat from the street. Anyone can come and walk in to meditate or relax. When we got there we entered Prayer Time where everyone just opened themselves up to God. It was amazing to see everyone just become vulnerable and say how they feel. Out on the streets they can't show emotion because then they are taken advantage of, but here, they opened up 100%. No one judged and everyone listened. It was truly beautiful. I met Daniel, a guy originally from Barcelona, and Sean, both of who I talked to for awhile. I later met Julius and James, who I had lunch with. Before lunch was Bible Study. Now most of those who live on the streets say they can't ever relate to the Bible. But Gary, the one guy who runs Retreat and who has a story much like most of the guys who come, is able to relate to them all. During this entire hour (or more!) of Bible Study, I just saw the interaction between each other and Gary. Many of them asked questions, gave their comments (which all differed in their own way!) and all talked to one another about the Lord. Gary made it seem so real to them. It's like they could finally grasp such a large picture and place it in their hearts. Being there made me feel at home and like we were all equal, which is exactly how we should feel everyday.
           Once lunch and Bible Study were over, I met Christian, a 6 year old boy who was probably one of the cutest ever. I played with him and we looked for blueberry airplanes and chocolate boats. What really touched my heart was that he wanted to read me a story from this "book" (which ended up being the Bible!) and he summarized it that God is awesome :) I did notice, however, that Christian is very free in what he can do when he put salt on my arm and I told him not to do it again. He got a little mad at me but when I asked for his forgiveness he said sorry and we hugged it out. Christian became close to my heart because I see a little boy who just wants to have the life of any other boy. I hope and pray that he continues to follow in the path that God wants him to follow and to know and always trust in Him.
          After retreat we went back to the Lot and I talked to Josh again. I told him I'd meet him in the same time at the same place and at that time he came. We continued talking and he asked me to read something from the Bible. I read him the end of John 17 because yesterday he told me about how he, God, and Jesus were all equal. John 17 explains just that. He really liked it and then asked me why I thought he was here right now in this place. I told him how God probably wants him to find his true beliefs and how everything happens for a reason. Whenever I talk to Josh, he just creates everything real simple. I'm able to just say how I feel and how he feels and I think we are really creating an awesome friendship. He had to go at 7 so he wouldn't get locked out so I said goodbye and met a guy named Manuel... who wasn't in his right state of mind.
        I told him I had to go and left to go talk to a guy named Robert and Manuel followed me. He proceeded to tell me how he wanted to change and not drink anymore. I was more than happy to help and gave him advice.  I actually saw Josh one last time and he asked if  I was gonna be around the next day. I told him yes and that I'd see him tomorrow. Ending today just convinced me more of why I love what I'm doing right now. Little by little I see relationships take place and grow and understand the importance of community and unity. For Josh, he has many broken relationships and doesn't have anyone to talk to, but whenever I talk to him, we're friends and we can carry on any conversation for hours. I hope that our friendship continues to grow throughout the summer :)
Jenny Sample

May 18, 2011 - Day 3

"You are precious in my eyes and honoured and I love you." - Isaiah 43:4

"For God nothing is impossible."

"We are called into the wilderness to know God."

"Jesus thirsts for unity and calls us all to unity."

"Creating barriers break relationships."

            Today was the first day out on the streets. We met at the house at 9 am where Pastor Andy told us that we needed to be at a specific church at 10:30. Between then we had to walk the streets and introduce ourselves to people. Not gonna lie.. I was pretty darn intimidated. Like the first time in anything I didn't know what to say or do. Jesse (one intern) and I walked up to a parking lot and just began talking to people. It went pretty well but it was kinda hard to start a conversation. In like 15 min things progressed and I'd like to say things went well. By that time we had to meet at the church so we left. Once we got there, Andy told us that they were doing some kind of lunch and worship and that they wanted us to join and talk/mingle with everyone there. I walked up to the front table and sat down next to a woman named Brenda. She was so pretty. She had a piece of clothing wrapped around her hair and she had the most beautiful brown eyes. We talked for awhile and she told me how she had a fiance named Warren and she wanted me to meet him. I told her about Safehouse and she said she was planning on going that Friday so I told her I'd try and see her then. I also met her friend, Warren, and a few other people, Alexander (who LOVED the music), Keith (who loved instruments), and Averick. When we had finished Andy had left and told us to just walk the streets and keep introducing ourselves. We first got lunch at Tindrum and walked to the parking lot and dang, what a transition.

         Walking from Tech to the Lot made me realize just how close we are to poverty and most of us don't even know it. Being at the lot I met a guy named Josh. He was pretty quiet; a white blond hair, blue eyed guy who just wanted to mind his own business. I introduced myself to him and we just began talking. He is 22 years old and he came out of prison 6 months ago. He was in prison for 3 years and before he had no home because his parents didn't care much for him. The entire time I talked to him, I felt like we bonded real well. He told me he's an artist and his dream job is to be an art teacher. He said that that would be "cool" (a word he uses very often!). We drew and he drew me a picture and throughout he talked about his beliefs. It was just so awesome. He showed me his tattoos that he made HIMSELF. I then saw to dots on each thumb and asked what they were for. He told me it's to remind him that he doesn't want to go to jail again. I then saw 2 other dots on each palm and asked again what it was for. He told me it's to remind him of Jesus. That day that I met Josh I knew he was a good guy. He told me he doesn't want to be homeless anymore. He wants to get his dog, Cash, back and he wants to live a regular life. He said how he lives in a shelter and once he entered after they had closed the gates and that he had to sleep outside. He never wanted to do that again. I told him about Safehouse and he said he wanted to go one day. He also made me a fortune teller and we told each others' fortunes. I told him that he was gonna make new friends this summer and he got a huge smile on his face. I also told him that I think he is really cool and he said "That's cool. I really like you too." When we were saying goodbye he pounded my fist and said "Stay cool." After all the interns went to Safehouse and volunteered and I got to talk to Joe and big V who were pretty awesome people! My day ended at 9:00. Please Lord keep providing energy for me to continue!

May 17, 2011 - Day 2

"We need to hear that gentle, inner voice of God who tells us:

 You do not need to pretend.

You do not need to hide your weakness.

You can be yourself."

-Befriending the Stranger, pg. 17

Today we walked around Atlanta and explored the streets... for the first time. Since I go to Tech you would assume that I would be good at finding my way around. False. We walked everywhere that we could be walking throughout the summer. It was a different experience. I felt like I was actually a part of the city and one of its "people", not just some passerby looking for a restaurant to eat. Walking from street to street and seeing the different parks and the different areas helped to open my eyes. We met people that I'm sure I'll talk to throughout the next few weeks and we went to Safehouse and met some awesome people, including Joe, one of the guys in charge. After four hours of walking I was EXHAUSTED. Pastor Andy did an awesome job in showing us around the city and I can say that I am so excited for what is to come. I hope and pray that God will continue to give me energy throughout this summer because I know I could wear myself out physically as well as emotionally. Also, like Day One in Befriending the Stranger, I hope to always be able to be myself and not become intimidated by the people on the streets. Please Lord, remind me that we are ALL people, who all need care and love. They all have stories as to why they're where they are now and most of the time they just want people to talk to. Please help me always remember that and let me become their friends.
Jenny Sample

May 16, 2011 - Day 1

Move in day. When I woke up this morning it still hadn't hit me. It wasn't until I was physically putting my bags in the car that I realized this was real. I arrived and met everyone. So down to Earth, so humble. I felt right, I felt like this was where I was supposed to be. Eating dinner with everyone was great. And returning to my new home was too. I still feel naive as to the dangers of this new community. In a way I feel safe but know it's a bit dangerous. I don't understand why I felt that way until I read the introduction of "Befriending the Stranger". Jesus wept and still weeps at our world; how we treat everyone, the injustice and the lack of love we show to one another, especially the most vulnerable who happen to be the people we are scared of the most. But it is in this "valley of Achor" that we find Jesus, and ultimately when we find Him we find God. Many question themselves and ask where they can find God and create a relationship with Him. The answer isn't far away. It is in the poorest of the poor, the people we drift away from and all our fears and pains that we will find His presence. For it is in the Valley of Achor where God is there with hope. We just have to overcome our human sentiments and take that step of faith into the darkness; for it is with faith that darkness becomes light. And it is in the light that we see God. I think that's why God wanted me to be here now. He knows all the pain and suffering I've been through and He wants to help me overcome it. I admit that it'll take quite the leap of faith but I trust in Him. I pray that He will use me as His instrument to lead others to Christ because He is leading me. If we follow in Jesus' footsteps into the Valley of Achor we will not only face our fears and pains but we will ultimately face God, where He is waiting for us with open arms.
*See Christ in ALL places*
Jenny Sample