As someone who has worked in the homelessness space and also spent most of my life around the edges of church culture, I appreciate the pragmatic way in which you approach these relationships and urgings from God. In my experience, church people love to serve “the least of these” in theory, but not so much in reality. I recognize it’s not easy or convenient to pursue these relationships, and I appreciate you sharing your experience.
So many people in this world are so quick to judge others without knowing their life story. Sometimes there are valid reasons why folks become addicted, homeless, etc. But, regardless the reason, they need someone to believe in them and help them feel worthy of love and respect. You did that for Lamin.
We should lead by example and you've certainly provided a wonderful example of humanity at its finest. Thanks for sharing this wonderful story.
As usual Holly, your piece brought me to tears. I didn't expect the ending that transpired. I'm saddened to hear it.
You always meet different people and can interact with them. I don't know how you do it.
I'm thinking God put Lamin in your world because he knew you would be learning about addiction soon because of your son. It's strange how things like that happen.
This just keeps showing me what a caring person you are. To do all you did to try to help Lamin is outstanding. Only a few brave souls would do as much as you did. You have a gift!
I'm sure he appreciated all you did for him. He probably never had someone who cared so much.
Well, I've got tears, goosepimples and a sopping wet hankie, Holly, but I don't have the right WORDS for this little box. All I can pull myself together to say right now is that the love you show and share and grow is awe-inspiring. ♥️
I'm thinking all kinds of thoughts about Christians and non-Christians and non-believers and different kinds of Christians and non-Christians and non-believers and how they all lead their lives.
I'm also thinking about the stereotypes many of us carry about every group different from ourselves.
But mostly I'm thinking about what it means to be a good person, whatever your beliefs.
Wow, Holly. What an amazing, inspiring story! I am moved and changed for having read it. Thank you for sharing yourself with us here and for sharing yourself with all of the folks fortunate enough to come in contact with you in the world outside of Substack. ❤️
I love the difference you made in this man's life. Addiction is so hard to work with. It's easy to think he lost his battle, but this story feels more like he ended his battle. He found a connection worth fighting for before he left, and that's the winning ticket right there. Bless you for being you. 💟
As someone who has worked in the homelessness space and also spent most of my life around the edges of church culture, I appreciate the pragmatic way in which you approach these relationships and urgings from God. In my experience, church people love to serve “the least of these” in theory, but not so much in reality. I recognize it’s not easy or convenient to pursue these relationships, and I appreciate you sharing your experience.
Holly, What courage you have. Your words brought me to tears. Thank you for sharing your story and Lamin's.
So many people in this world are so quick to judge others without knowing their life story. Sometimes there are valid reasons why folks become addicted, homeless, etc. But, regardless the reason, they need someone to believe in them and help them feel worthy of love and respect. You did that for Lamin.
We should lead by example and you've certainly provided a wonderful example of humanity at its finest. Thanks for sharing this wonderful story.
It's fantastic that you listen to and obey these 'commands ' you receive.
As usual Holly, your piece brought me to tears. I didn't expect the ending that transpired. I'm saddened to hear it.
You always meet different people and can interact with them. I don't know how you do it.
I'm thinking God put Lamin in your world because he knew you would be learning about addiction soon because of your son. It's strange how things like that happen.
This just keeps showing me what a caring person you are. To do all you did to try to help Lamin is outstanding. Only a few brave souls would do as much as you did. You have a gift!
I'm sure he appreciated all you did for him. He probably never had someone who cared so much.
Well, I've got tears, goosepimples and a sopping wet hankie, Holly, but I don't have the right WORDS for this little box. All I can pull myself together to say right now is that the love you show and share and grow is awe-inspiring. ♥️
I'm thinking all kinds of thoughts about Christians and non-Christians and non-believers and different kinds of Christians and non-Christians and non-believers and how they all lead their lives.
I'm also thinking about the stereotypes many of us carry about every group different from ourselves.
But mostly I'm thinking about what it means to be a good person, whatever your beliefs.
You, Holly, are a VERY good person.
Heartbreaking / Uplifting / I'm all over the place with this and I love the willingness you had to love him. God is just all up in this story.
Thank you for sharing, Holly. So inspiring! I hear you about answering God’s whispers in your spirit. 🙏
I loved this. Thank you for sharing.
Wow, Holly. What an amazing, inspiring story! I am moved and changed for having read it. Thank you for sharing yourself with us here and for sharing yourself with all of the folks fortunate enough to come in contact with you in the world outside of Substack. ❤️
I love the difference you made in this man's life. Addiction is so hard to work with. It's easy to think he lost his battle, but this story feels more like he ended his battle. He found a connection worth fighting for before he left, and that's the winning ticket right there. Bless you for being you. 💟