A Hard Days Work

“Today we probably created the most, not that we haven’t been working the entire time but working in general is much different from actual creation.  It was a situation of sort of mixed emotions in my mind because of what we did and its conflicting effects on Miss Dorris.  I personally felt really good because we were creating something new for her and we were rebuilding what the storm took away.  However, when we went to show her the house at the end of the day she seemed very sad to see her old house gone.  She appreciated the new house and all the work we were doing but at the same seeing all the house she previously lived in being torn out she was sad.  I didn’t know whether to feel horribly guilty or horribly happy with the work we had done today, I don’t think I ever will.  All the same, it feels good to help and I am glad that I am here.”

 -David

5 Comments »

  Betsy Teays wrote @

Thanks for being there and doing what you’re doing. All I can say is you’re in my prayers, especailly of thanksgiving. One of the things I’ve (re)learned from being there is that we are all ONE, God’s children. Peace of the Lord be with you!

  Janet wrote @

Hey you guys –
You are doing beautiful work and we are all proud of you. Thanks for taking St. Stephens to New Orleans and for being our hands and hearts as well as your own. You rock.
Peace and blessings,
Janet+

  Jennifer Gary wrote @

David,
Thanks for your story about Miss Dorris. Your description of both of your reactions to your work was very moving. You kids have a lot of understanding and compassion and I’m sure the people you are helping appreciate that as much as the physical labor and building materials you are providing. I’m so thankful you all are sharing your experiences with those of us back in Seattle and I hope to hear more stories, both on the blog and in person when you get back home. Thanks for all you are doing.
Jennifer G.

  Cris Blair wrote @

you guys and gals are just awesome. It is great to hear your news. I am sure that deep down Miss Dorris is so thankful that you have helped her. She will add her former wreck of a house to the past and move on to a new life thanks to all of you. keep it up, the humidity zaps your strength. I shared this web site with my cousin here, aged 78 who lived thru Katrina in a senior high rise in the Quarter. He is happy here and will follow your progress, as I will with thankfulness and joy, cris blair

  Paul Peck & Mindy Chambers wrote @

David and The Orange Crush -

“I didn’t know whether to feel horribly guilty or horribly happy with the work we had done today, I don’t think I ever will.”

Certainly you need not feel guilt. What you’re performing is a sort of funeral for Miss Dorris’ past life. And as with any other funeral grief is integral to the process. It may not feel that way this week but when you get a chance to reflect on all this it will be made clearer. This is a transformative process and a natural part of your faith formation and jouney with God.

Grieve with her. Pray with her. Pray for her and her neighbors. Celebrate her past life before You Know When and your new lives together in fellowship with her. All will be well in God’s hands.

Peace
Paul & Mindy
stpaulsstories.blogspot.com


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