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.
This one was difficult. It’s hard to tell this kind of story with a word limit in mind. And also difficult to relive the experience knowing how it ended.
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.
Believe me, I don’t want to paint dealing with those in active addiction as anything glamorous or fun. There is a reason Lamin’s family wasn’t around. They had grown weary with helping him and watching him continue the cycle. I probably would have, too. But for a season, I know I was supposed to help him, and it made me a better person.
Sadly, I know what dealing with an addict is like. And I understand Lamin's family members stepping away. People make their own choices and we can only do so much to help. At least you tried and showed him kindness. You both benefited and that's a good thing.
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.
I think we all have different gifts, Matt, and being able to strike up a conversation with anyone is one I recognize. Not everyone is built the same, and I’m thankful for that! The key to a better world is for each person to tap into whatever they are good at and then do it.
I heard this once: Identify the things your good at and then think of the things you’re passionate about. You’ll find your purpose wherever those two intersect.
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.
“I'm also thinking about the stereotypes many of us carry about every group different from ourselves.”
And oh, how we all do, don’t we, Michael? I’ve been fortunate enough through the years to meet people from all walks of life (no minor miracle given my small-town upbringing and that I have always lived in the South). I’ve had the honor or having very real discussions with all kinds of humans--White, Black, and many other colors from all over the world; gay and straight and somewhere between; Christian, Muslim, atheist, agnostic, Hindu, and other faiths without big labels; rich, poor, and middle-class; all political flavors; those struggling with addictions and mental illness and those without a physical or mental ailment. The greatest adventure of my life has been all the people I have met who have broadened my mind and heart.
As for being a good person, I think I have good and bad in me. But the difference is that every day, moment by moment, I mostly choose good. I attribute that to my faith and my belief in living by three simple words: love one another.
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.
“Church culture” is the hardest culture to be a part of, is it not?
Holly, What courage you have. Your words brought me to tears. Thank you for sharing your story and Lamin's.
This one was difficult. It’s hard to tell this kind of story with a word limit in mind. And also difficult to relive the experience knowing how it ended.
I can only imagine. Heartbreaking. But God. What a difference you made to his life Holly.
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.
Believe me, I don’t want to paint dealing with those in active addiction as anything glamorous or fun. There is a reason Lamin’s family wasn’t around. They had grown weary with helping him and watching him continue the cycle. I probably would have, too. But for a season, I know I was supposed to help him, and it made me a better person.
Sadly, I know what dealing with an addict is like. And I understand Lamin's family members stepping away. People make their own choices and we can only do so much to help. At least you tried and showed him kindness. You both benefited and that's a good thing.
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.
I think we all have different gifts, Matt, and being able to strike up a conversation with anyone is one I recognize. Not everyone is built the same, and I’m thankful for that! The key to a better world is for each person to tap into whatever they are good at and then do it.
I heard this once: Identify the things your good at and then think of the things you’re passionate about. You’ll find your purpose wherever those two intersect.
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.
“I'm also thinking about the stereotypes many of us carry about every group different from ourselves.”
And oh, how we all do, don’t we, Michael? I’ve been fortunate enough through the years to meet people from all walks of life (no minor miracle given my small-town upbringing and that I have always lived in the South). I’ve had the honor or having very real discussions with all kinds of humans--White, Black, and many other colors from all over the world; gay and straight and somewhere between; Christian, Muslim, atheist, agnostic, Hindu, and other faiths without big labels; rich, poor, and middle-class; all political flavors; those struggling with addictions and mental illness and those without a physical or mental ailment. The greatest adventure of my life has been all the people I have met who have broadened my mind and heart.
As for being a good person, I think I have good and bad in me. But the difference is that every day, moment by moment, I mostly choose good. I attribute that to my faith and my belief in living by three simple words: love one another.
We do all have good and bad in us, and, yes, we have to choose, often frequently.
But I still say you're a good person because the good choices you make seem extraordinarily good to me.
One day...I’m willing it...our paths will cross. Can’t wait!
Looking forward to it as well!
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. 💟