Grace Hurney
Civic Engagement
March 11, 2009.
Reflections: The Final Day
As the week came to a close, with sadness I found myself at our last day of volunteering. Well, not all sadness, cause I was tired and needed to see my parents. That aside, we began our day (again bright and early) at the Nashville Rescue Mission.
Honestly, the whole day was wonderful- I had absolutely no negative or frustrating moments. I chose to work in the kitchens instead of the basement this time, and my choice was rewarded. We worked hard, but had fun preparing and serving the food. We started off cutting bread, then progressed to cutting potatoes and de-boning turkey (not my job, I’ll stick to the vegetables). Then we served lunch, which was one of the most rewarding experiences of the whole trip. The men were so kind and grateful, and I was thankful for them allowing us to come into the Mission and accepting us instead of antagonizing us (which had happened during the week). I remember one man even gave us his address so we could be pen pals with him- if I could locate whoever is in possession of this address, I would love to write him. We then prepared more food, mainly cutting up zucchinis. We had fun while we were doing this, seeing who could peel the vegetables the fastest and so on and so forth. Then at the close of the day, we were escorted upstairs to a private dinner. When we arrived, I saw a massive amount of food, given to us as a token of the staff’s appreciation for the hard work we had put in during the week. I remember sitting in the chair, reflecting on everything we had completed in the week; everything from the frustrating to uplifting moments of the week. Despite my paint splattered jeans and lack of sleep (that’s my fault really, I should have gone to bed earlier), I would certainly repeat this experience if given the privilege to do so.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
NicoleBartley
Nicole Bartley
March 11th 2009
Reflection
Reflection: Day 5- FINAL DAY!!
So, today wasn’t as bad as other days. It wasn’t as great as yesterday, but it wasn’t as bad as the other three. We all went back the the Nashville Rescue Mission again today. We were split up into the same different acivities as before. This time though, I convinced Grace to work in the kitchen with some of the others, sure we had to wear silly plastic aprons, and crazy looking hairnets, but atleast it wasn’t as gross as that nasty, smelly, filled with mold and mildew basement (long detailed discription, I know, but it really was so much worse).
First we cut up the bread, then poured all the pepsi into large jugs, so that it was easier to serve. We also got to wrap all the silverware, and set up, then serve the drinks. I must admit I had a lot of fun with this. I got to really talk with some of the other people on the trip, who I didn’t know, or didn’t know well until then. It was nice getting to make new friends, and strengthening bonds with old ones. Around campus I don’t get to see or talk to Michelle or Tasy, or Tiffany too much, but it was really great to be able to spend time with them, and getting to know them better. They are really great people, and I am glad for and appreciate the time spent working with them on this little adventure.
After serving, we got to do a lot of other numerous things like, peel and cut potatoes, chop vegetables, and de-bone turkey (yuck!). Then, after all work was done, we got to all sit down together for a dinner the management had prepared espeshially for our group. It was an extremly tasty meal, and it showed how much the Mission really appreciated our help. To end the week of work with this dinner was pretty cool. We were all able to sit down and talk about our experiences throughout the week, and able to hear the stories of the people who weren’t in the same group as our own.
March 11th 2009
Reflection
Reflection: Day 5- FINAL DAY!!
So, today wasn’t as bad as other days. It wasn’t as great as yesterday, but it wasn’t as bad as the other three. We all went back the the Nashville Rescue Mission again today. We were split up into the same different acivities as before. This time though, I convinced Grace to work in the kitchen with some of the others, sure we had to wear silly plastic aprons, and crazy looking hairnets, but atleast it wasn’t as gross as that nasty, smelly, filled with mold and mildew basement (long detailed discription, I know, but it really was so much worse).
First we cut up the bread, then poured all the pepsi into large jugs, so that it was easier to serve. We also got to wrap all the silverware, and set up, then serve the drinks. I must admit I had a lot of fun with this. I got to really talk with some of the other people on the trip, who I didn’t know, or didn’t know well until then. It was nice getting to make new friends, and strengthening bonds with old ones. Around campus I don’t get to see or talk to Michelle or Tasy, or Tiffany too much, but it was really great to be able to spend time with them, and getting to know them better. They are really great people, and I am glad for and appreciate the time spent working with them on this little adventure.
After serving, we got to do a lot of other numerous things like, peel and cut potatoes, chop vegetables, and de-bone turkey (yuck!). Then, after all work was done, we got to all sit down together for a dinner the management had prepared espeshially for our group. It was an extremly tasty meal, and it showed how much the Mission really appreciated our help. To end the week of work with this dinner was pretty cool. We were all able to sit down and talk about our experiences throughout the week, and able to hear the stories of the people who weren’t in the same group as our own.
NicoleBartley
Nicole Bartley
March 10th 2009
Reflection
Reflection: Day Four
So, I know the last 3 day’s I had been complaining about the trip so far, this is my first day, that I was actually pleased with the work we did. Today my group went to the Music City Rescue Mission, though I’m not sure if thats the name, its something along those lines. I was incredibly pleased with today. From the moment we got there, we were put to work. Some people were sorting through clothes, others working outside, some working with food. The first thing I did was split 50lb bags of rice and beans into smaller baggies, so that they could be distributed to familys. I was really impressed with the working staff at this organization. They knew ahead of time what they needed us to do, and they had even written out a list. I’m the type of person who likes organization, and plans, so this pleased me very much. Another great thing about this place is that we were able to mingle with some of the familys that came by for help, and it was great to see that our hard work wasn’t a waste of time.
The one thing that I wasn’t happy with is that I found the Man in charge of the organization to be a little sexist. He seemed to go to the two boys, Eric, and Brian, to do the heavy lifting, even though I told him I would be able to do that as well. He basically shrugged me aside without seeing if I could actually help or not, and that got me angry. I’ve been spinning a 10lb rifle for 4 years, and shooting that same heavy rifle for 5 years, I have muscles. Instead of letting me try, Brian and Eric were left to do a lot of the work, that they really didn’t have to do. I like being tested, and I was upset that I didn’t get to be.
My favorite part of the day was when the Jennifers, Grace and I got to carry down the cubicle parts from upstairs, next door to the churches basement. It was the part in the day where I actually did get to use the strength I had and I was able to carry over parts by myself, that took two girls to do otherwise. I’m not going to lie, I was proud. At the end of the day I had felt like I did a good honest days work, and that’s the feeling I was hoping to experience throughout this trip.
Alas though, I really must include this story, though I’m sure everyone else who witnessed it spoke of this story as well. Later that day when a group of us had gone to the mall, Eric and I had seen a family there who was at the Mission earlier. While at the Mission they were taking advantage of free clothes and toys, when we saw them later at the mall, they were all wearing stylish name brand clothing, with more bags of clothes at their feet, and all with starbucks drinks in their hands. It just goes to show that anyone can cheat the system, I suppose.
March 10th 2009
Reflection
Reflection: Day Four
So, I know the last 3 day’s I had been complaining about the trip so far, this is my first day, that I was actually pleased with the work we did. Today my group went to the Music City Rescue Mission, though I’m not sure if thats the name, its something along those lines. I was incredibly pleased with today. From the moment we got there, we were put to work. Some people were sorting through clothes, others working outside, some working with food. The first thing I did was split 50lb bags of rice and beans into smaller baggies, so that they could be distributed to familys. I was really impressed with the working staff at this organization. They knew ahead of time what they needed us to do, and they had even written out a list. I’m the type of person who likes organization, and plans, so this pleased me very much. Another great thing about this place is that we were able to mingle with some of the familys that came by for help, and it was great to see that our hard work wasn’t a waste of time.
The one thing that I wasn’t happy with is that I found the Man in charge of the organization to be a little sexist. He seemed to go to the two boys, Eric, and Brian, to do the heavy lifting, even though I told him I would be able to do that as well. He basically shrugged me aside without seeing if I could actually help or not, and that got me angry. I’ve been spinning a 10lb rifle for 4 years, and shooting that same heavy rifle for 5 years, I have muscles. Instead of letting me try, Brian and Eric were left to do a lot of the work, that they really didn’t have to do. I like being tested, and I was upset that I didn’t get to be.
My favorite part of the day was when the Jennifers, Grace and I got to carry down the cubicle parts from upstairs, next door to the churches basement. It was the part in the day where I actually did get to use the strength I had and I was able to carry over parts by myself, that took two girls to do otherwise. I’m not going to lie, I was proud. At the end of the day I had felt like I did a good honest days work, and that’s the feeling I was hoping to experience throughout this trip.
Alas though, I really must include this story, though I’m sure everyone else who witnessed it spoke of this story as well. Later that day when a group of us had gone to the mall, Eric and I had seen a family there who was at the Mission earlier. While at the Mission they were taking advantage of free clothes and toys, when we saw them later at the mall, they were all wearing stylish name brand clothing, with more bags of clothes at their feet, and all with starbucks drinks in their hands. It just goes to show that anyone can cheat the system, I suppose.
NicoleBartley
Nicole Bartley
March 9th 2009
Reflection
Day Three
So, day three was a short day for me. We started off the day by everyone going to the Nashville Rescue Mission. This was my groups first day helping out at the Mission. There was a few different groups. One group went to hand out clothes, another went to work in the kitchens, a third group went to help with the classes, and a final group went to work down in the basements. The basement group is the one I was with.
I wasn’t entirly sure what we were doing with the basement stuff. We were told to sort things out, throw things away, and such like that, but I really just felt like we were moving object from point A to point B. There didn’t seem to be a plan to what we were doing, no clear difference. Though I must say, some of the stuff people donated were disgusting. Shirts were stained, blankets were torn, pillows were covered in mildew, it was gross. And worst of all, we even found a ton of underwear. I know people think they are helping by donating this, but seriously, not even homeless people are going to want to wear used underwear, that’s taking unsanitary to a whole new level. Most of the time working in the basement, we spent sitting around. There wasn’t too much we could do, we didn’t have the right equipment to move things. So the work wasn’t too hard, just gross. Unfortunatly my day ended after lunch, when I got sick and had to be taken back to the Hotel.
March 9th 2009
Reflection
Day Three
So, day three was a short day for me. We started off the day by everyone going to the Nashville Rescue Mission. This was my groups first day helping out at the Mission. There was a few different groups. One group went to hand out clothes, another went to work in the kitchens, a third group went to help with the classes, and a final group went to work down in the basements. The basement group is the one I was with.
I wasn’t entirly sure what we were doing with the basement stuff. We were told to sort things out, throw things away, and such like that, but I really just felt like we were moving object from point A to point B. There didn’t seem to be a plan to what we were doing, no clear difference. Though I must say, some of the stuff people donated were disgusting. Shirts were stained, blankets were torn, pillows were covered in mildew, it was gross. And worst of all, we even found a ton of underwear. I know people think they are helping by donating this, but seriously, not even homeless people are going to want to wear used underwear, that’s taking unsanitary to a whole new level. Most of the time working in the basement, we spent sitting around. There wasn’t too much we could do, we didn’t have the right equipment to move things. So the work wasn’t too hard, just gross. Unfortunatly my day ended after lunch, when I got sick and had to be taken back to the Hotel.
JenniferParsons
Jennifer Parsons
Reflection #4
Alternative Spring Break
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Today we got to go to a new place. We went to Music City Mission. It was ran by the people of the Church right beside of it. It was a lot cleaner and more of the norm and comfortable than the rest.
It was different in that it did not allow the homeless to stay there over night, but they provided items that are greatly needed by the homeless and less fortunate. For example, they give away clothes, but also have a limit because there is more than the one or so families that happen to come in that day who are in need of similar items. I believe that is a good thing to do because you do not want people to take more than necessary when there are others who are in dire need of those items.
When choosing what to keep and what not to, they are generous in what they give. They keep a small percentage of what is donated to them and they themselves donate the rest to other similar programs. That way, the items are not wasted and can be distributed to those to need it and do not come to their facility.
It was rewarding to actually see woman and children, rather than just the man. Do not take that the wrong way. I am not saying that it is nice to see woman and children in that state of need, but so far, we have only encountered men who need this assistance and I wanted to see the woman and children who have to face these hardships, too. It was different to see them and it is unexplainable.
Something that I keep thinking about that happened today has to do with a baby. As we were moving things from upstairs to the Church basement, I could hear a child crying. Finally, I saw that there was a baby in her car seat that had been left in the explorer all alone. After noticing, I walked inside to look for the child’s parent. I saw her mother standing there. She was showing off her dog and I realized that she had been there for a very long time. With the temperature being so warm, I felt the need to tell someone about the little girl left outside. A girl with me walked inside and told Brother Bob about the child and he went to make sure she was going to check on her child. I found that very wrong of the mother to do. That is something I will not forget. It really made me angry and aggravated me that she was paying so much attention to her dog and neglected her child. The longer she bragged about her dog and ignored her child, the more angry and aggravated I became.
Reflection #4
Alternative Spring Break
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Today we got to go to a new place. We went to Music City Mission. It was ran by the people of the Church right beside of it. It was a lot cleaner and more of the norm and comfortable than the rest.
It was different in that it did not allow the homeless to stay there over night, but they provided items that are greatly needed by the homeless and less fortunate. For example, they give away clothes, but also have a limit because there is more than the one or so families that happen to come in that day who are in need of similar items. I believe that is a good thing to do because you do not want people to take more than necessary when there are others who are in dire need of those items.
When choosing what to keep and what not to, they are generous in what they give. They keep a small percentage of what is donated to them and they themselves donate the rest to other similar programs. That way, the items are not wasted and can be distributed to those to need it and do not come to their facility.
It was rewarding to actually see woman and children, rather than just the man. Do not take that the wrong way. I am not saying that it is nice to see woman and children in that state of need, but so far, we have only encountered men who need this assistance and I wanted to see the woman and children who have to face these hardships, too. It was different to see them and it is unexplainable.
Something that I keep thinking about that happened today has to do with a baby. As we were moving things from upstairs to the Church basement, I could hear a child crying. Finally, I saw that there was a baby in her car seat that had been left in the explorer all alone. After noticing, I walked inside to look for the child’s parent. I saw her mother standing there. She was showing off her dog and I realized that she had been there for a very long time. With the temperature being so warm, I felt the need to tell someone about the little girl left outside. A girl with me walked inside and told Brother Bob about the child and he went to make sure she was going to check on her child. I found that very wrong of the mother to do. That is something I will not forget. It really made me angry and aggravated me that she was paying so much attention to her dog and neglected her child. The longer she bragged about her dog and ignored her child, the more angry and aggravated I became.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
StephenReed
Today we went back to Nashville Rescue Mission. When we first arrived we weren’t shown around NRM. It’s a very large place with each area doing something else. Like we found out that there lounge area also acts as a laundry folding area for the washing and dryer machines are housed in the same area. Since they sleep 100 people from there program that they run for different people from drug addiction to gambling addictions. Then we seen the areas where the actually men from the streets sleep which they can sleep 300 of them. They also have a section which is included with the 300 that if the gentlemen are in a wheelchair can sleep since the beds are lower making it easier for them to get into it. Then along with that they have a section that is for men who are drunk they can sleep there too but they keep them from the other guys that are sleeping so they don’t have fights. Then we met the head of the NRM –which I for got his name- he was a nice gentlemen we also met brother Thomas whom later on would be seeing over a few of us to get our work done. Our group was split up some going to the kitchen to feed people some going to educate people then some helping with moving donations out of the building sending them to Good Will. I went down to the basement to help move donations out and that’s where we met Brother Thomas again whom told us what they needed done the most and making sure we got it done. All in all I think we all did what they needed done seen for ourselves that we won’t always have mommy and daddy’s help and when life gets tough perhaps there will be people like us to give us a hand in heading into the right direction.
StephanieBailey
3/11/09 Day Five
It was almost kind of sad leaving the Rescue Mission today. I’m sure a lot of the guys working there enjoyed having us around because it made theirs jobs easier. Today was almost relaxed. We worked the whole time but I felt like I knew what I was doing for once. The guys who worked in the kitchen made it a lax environment to work in. We were finally able to serve today even though we had to stand our ground when a business company came along and tried to take our spots. Not this time. I had a lot of fun the last day we were there. I think everyone’s spirits were lifted, we knew it was our last day of work and we’d finally be able to serve.
Afterward they surprised us with a dinner. It was amazing and unexpected. Little did we know that half the things we were chopping that day would end up on our own dinner plates. It was nice to hear everyone’s stories while we ate with them as well.
Overall I think this trip was a successes, I believe that the Missions we worked at were grateful for the helping hands and it gave us an experience most college kids don’t get. I do feel however that some people from the trip didn’t realize how much work really went into this and because of that there was some drama amongst the groups. Either way I think we did a far job of not bringing that animosity with us to the Missions. I also think that if we were to ever do something like this again we should bring our own cleaning supplies. Some of the Missions were prepared for us so five people Had to sit back because we couldn’t all share one rag.
I also suggest that we work form Baltimore, or DC next time. That’s just my opinion.
It was almost kind of sad leaving the Rescue Mission today. I’m sure a lot of the guys working there enjoyed having us around because it made theirs jobs easier. Today was almost relaxed. We worked the whole time but I felt like I knew what I was doing for once. The guys who worked in the kitchen made it a lax environment to work in. We were finally able to serve today even though we had to stand our ground when a business company came along and tried to take our spots. Not this time. I had a lot of fun the last day we were there. I think everyone’s spirits were lifted, we knew it was our last day of work and we’d finally be able to serve.
Afterward they surprised us with a dinner. It was amazing and unexpected. Little did we know that half the things we were chopping that day would end up on our own dinner plates. It was nice to hear everyone’s stories while we ate with them as well.
Overall I think this trip was a successes, I believe that the Missions we worked at were grateful for the helping hands and it gave us an experience most college kids don’t get. I do feel however that some people from the trip didn’t realize how much work really went into this and because of that there was some drama amongst the groups. Either way I think we did a far job of not bringing that animosity with us to the Missions. I also think that if we were to ever do something like this again we should bring our own cleaning supplies. Some of the Missions were prepared for us so five people Had to sit back because we couldn’t all share one rag.
I also suggest that we work form Baltimore, or DC next time. That’s just my opinion.
StephanieBailey
3/17/2009 Day Four
The planets must have been out of alignment in my universe today. This trip has been white and black, hardly any grey. I lost my purse earlier today and even though the only real casualty was my check book, it’s hard to give up and keep working when you know you’re missing something. Either way I suppose I’m lucky that more wasn’t lost. Maybe I’m thinking too much but if Jesse hadn’t left/forgotten his camera/phone and I hadn’t given him mine, I probably would have put it in that bag. I’m trying to look on the bright side, really I haven’t lost anything too important but I can’t image loosing everything all at once some of the participants have.
Today’s mission was extremely organized which made everything that much easier. I bounced around from task to task mainly because there wasn’t a whole lot to do but I think our group did a sufficient job at sorting and bagging everything, including my purse.
I felt that the only snag today was the owners. They seemed to bicker with each other more often then necessary. Maybe that was just me though. I’m trying to refrain from regretting the day’s events back in words.
This trip thus far has been extremely tiring, mentally and physically. The manual labor takes it’s toll but the atmosphere does it’s share. I saw families come in today and I thought “that’s so sad, they have four children and they all have to wear give-away clothes” but then I saw that they smiling. The children didn’t know the difference and the parents smiled and thanked everyone. I hated give-outs. I hated digging through clothes bins. Most of the time the places and bins smelled and I was just so uncomfortable that I would beg my mother to let me leave. The Music City Rescue Mission made it seem like they were shopping. Free shopping, the best kind. It took the “picking” out of hand-outs. They didn’t have to dig around like animals in the dirt just for clothes.
When ever we got food from the shelters or churched they were always canned goods. There was never anything fresh. MCR Mission gave out meals that could serve quite a few. Whenever we got food it was always the oddest combinations. My mother had to get pretty creative with her cooking.
The planets must have been out of alignment in my universe today. This trip has been white and black, hardly any grey. I lost my purse earlier today and even though the only real casualty was my check book, it’s hard to give up and keep working when you know you’re missing something. Either way I suppose I’m lucky that more wasn’t lost. Maybe I’m thinking too much but if Jesse hadn’t left/forgotten his camera/phone and I hadn’t given him mine, I probably would have put it in that bag. I’m trying to look on the bright side, really I haven’t lost anything too important but I can’t image loosing everything all at once some of the participants have.
Today’s mission was extremely organized which made everything that much easier. I bounced around from task to task mainly because there wasn’t a whole lot to do but I think our group did a sufficient job at sorting and bagging everything, including my purse.
I felt that the only snag today was the owners. They seemed to bicker with each other more often then necessary. Maybe that was just me though. I’m trying to refrain from regretting the day’s events back in words.
This trip thus far has been extremely tiring, mentally and physically. The manual labor takes it’s toll but the atmosphere does it’s share. I saw families come in today and I thought “that’s so sad, they have four children and they all have to wear give-away clothes” but then I saw that they smiling. The children didn’t know the difference and the parents smiled and thanked everyone. I hated give-outs. I hated digging through clothes bins. Most of the time the places and bins smelled and I was just so uncomfortable that I would beg my mother to let me leave. The Music City Rescue Mission made it seem like they were shopping. Free shopping, the best kind. It took the “picking” out of hand-outs. They didn’t have to dig around like animals in the dirt just for clothes.
When ever we got food from the shelters or churched they were always canned goods. There was never anything fresh. MCR Mission gave out meals that could serve quite a few. Whenever we got food it was always the oddest combinations. My mother had to get pretty creative with her cooking.
StephanieBailey
3/17/2009 Day Three
Today’s work was more about getting to know the people the worked within the mission. They were extremely friendly and everyone was open to share their story of how and why they ended up where they did. I was also fortunate enough to be able to share my reason for being here. We met a man named Willie that told us that he had to leave everything behind including a wife, business and two children. He also told me that his little girl’s name was Bailey. Getting to work in the kitchens was so much better then on campus. I had a funny feeling when I was on campus. I feel as if our being there was being drained for all it’s worth. That the campus suddenly decided they had all this work to do. There were little things that bothered me greatly. Just the fact that the inside was filthy told me that they really didn’t care to much but figured they’d take the help they were offered. Either way I was glad to help. The only thing I have against the place was that it made me uneasy because the participants were just loose. If one of them decided to do some damage, who was there to do anything about it? Wendy?
I also felt that the mission system was structurally more sound. They had a program and the participants knew it but heart, I feel as if the other campus was just a come and go as you please kind of deal.
Some of the students seem to have gotten weary already. I heard there were multiple cases of people falling asleep. I wish there some way of “weeding” out people who treat this as a free trip to Nashville. I think there are way too many party people here. They roll their eyes when the day’s schedule is announced and complain the entire time. They’re pretty much a buzz kill.
Today’s work was more about getting to know the people the worked within the mission. They were extremely friendly and everyone was open to share their story of how and why they ended up where they did. I was also fortunate enough to be able to share my reason for being here. We met a man named Willie that told us that he had to leave everything behind including a wife, business and two children. He also told me that his little girl’s name was Bailey. Getting to work in the kitchens was so much better then on campus. I had a funny feeling when I was on campus. I feel as if our being there was being drained for all it’s worth. That the campus suddenly decided they had all this work to do. There were little things that bothered me greatly. Just the fact that the inside was filthy told me that they really didn’t care to much but figured they’d take the help they were offered. Either way I was glad to help. The only thing I have against the place was that it made me uneasy because the participants were just loose. If one of them decided to do some damage, who was there to do anything about it? Wendy?
I also felt that the mission system was structurally more sound. They had a program and the participants knew it but heart, I feel as if the other campus was just a come and go as you please kind of deal.
Some of the students seem to have gotten weary already. I heard there were multiple cases of people falling asleep. I wish there some way of “weeding” out people who treat this as a free trip to Nashville. I think there are way too many party people here. They roll their eyes when the day’s schedule is announced and complain the entire time. They’re pretty much a buzz kill.
StephanieBailey
3/17/2009 Day two
The Frist museum for Visual Arts was quite wonderful. I was surprised by it’s size, it looks so large from the outside and yet it only had three exhibits. I also thought it was weird that the gift shop pushed Rodin’s The Thinker so much and yet, it wasn’t there, in it’s originality or otherwise. Either way the focus for our going was the Safe Haven exhibit. This line was much different from what I gathered from the Campus for Human Development. Safe Haven put a face to each story. The video was a little sad and I hate to keep going back to my own story but the Wiltkins’s story was so much like my own that I really felt for them.
I could also appreciate the exhibit for it’s artistic value. The photographs were very unique and artistically done with the super imposed photos on top of the originals. I also took notice that the children got to choose how they wanted their photos to be taken which tells a lot more then just a headshot.
I know it doesn’t really apply but what I really enjoyed was the Paint in Flesh exhibit. I thought it was astounding and took a lot from it. I suppose the reason why is because I’m an art major and while the Safe Haven pictures were enlightening, the other artwork meant more to me. I hope this doesn’t make me sound nonchalant. I appreciate what these people have to go through but it really doesn’t have that big of an impact because I’ve lived that live, I understand it firsthand.
The Frist museum for Visual Arts was quite wonderful. I was surprised by it’s size, it looks so large from the outside and yet it only had three exhibits. I also thought it was weird that the gift shop pushed Rodin’s The Thinker so much and yet, it wasn’t there, in it’s originality or otherwise. Either way the focus for our going was the Safe Haven exhibit. This line was much different from what I gathered from the Campus for Human Development. Safe Haven put a face to each story. The video was a little sad and I hate to keep going back to my own story but the Wiltkins’s story was so much like my own that I really felt for them.
I could also appreciate the exhibit for it’s artistic value. The photographs were very unique and artistically done with the super imposed photos on top of the originals. I also took notice that the children got to choose how they wanted their photos to be taken which tells a lot more then just a headshot.
I know it doesn’t really apply but what I really enjoyed was the Paint in Flesh exhibit. I thought it was astounding and took a lot from it. I suppose the reason why is because I’m an art major and while the Safe Haven pictures were enlightening, the other artwork meant more to me. I hope this doesn’t make me sound nonchalant. I appreciate what these people have to go through but it really doesn’t have that big of an impact because I’ve lived that live, I understand it firsthand.
StephanieBailey
3/17/2009 Day one
Today was an eye opener for most but for me it was a way for me to give back to a community that had taken care of me when I was younger. My Mother and Father had always had a rough relationship and so when we needed to escape and had no where to go, we ended up at a shelter similar to the one we were at today. On my recent trip back to Baltimore, I passed by that shelter and saw that it was in complete ruins. It was rundown, empty, and there were homeless people perched on the marble stairs. I remember now, my hand print and name are some where in the building on one of the walls. It crushed me to think that I had no way of thanking anyone who had helped us out. When I heard that there was going to be a trip into Nashville that focused on homelessness I jumped at the chance to repay the “debt.”
I never really realized how that time had effected me until I sat in the National Rescue Mission’s cafeteria. I could remember that because of overpopulation, they had to set us up in cots in the cafeteria. I remembered not understanding why we couldn’t go home, why I couldn’t see my Dad and why we had to live with a bunch of strangers. Not only that but when my Mother was growing up she was often homeless too. She was a runaway by nature and so she bounced around between girl’s homes and shelters. Unlike what I experienced, I was surprised to find that the shelter provided so many different programs. I always remembered being bored because there was nothing to do and for some reason I wasn’t allowed to play with the other children. I wish now that we had had some sort of art program rather then just the colouring book and crayon set I was given to play with. I also think the point system is brilliant. I’m sure that if we had something like that in the shelters in Baltimore, people wouldn’t come and go so often. My mother always said that she didn’t like hand-outs and even though she was at a shelter she wanted to work for what we were given. So I think the point system eliminates some of the helpless feelings as well as provides the participants with a fair way to earn supplies.
One thing that bothered me was how dirty every things was. There were a few art pieces made by participants hanging around that were caked with dirt. I can understand that they just don’t have the time to go out and trim hedges or repaint bathrooms like they’d want to but a simple maintenance cleanup shouldn’t be a problem.
Today was an eye opener for most but for me it was a way for me to give back to a community that had taken care of me when I was younger. My Mother and Father had always had a rough relationship and so when we needed to escape and had no where to go, we ended up at a shelter similar to the one we were at today. On my recent trip back to Baltimore, I passed by that shelter and saw that it was in complete ruins. It was rundown, empty, and there were homeless people perched on the marble stairs. I remember now, my hand print and name are some where in the building on one of the walls. It crushed me to think that I had no way of thanking anyone who had helped us out. When I heard that there was going to be a trip into Nashville that focused on homelessness I jumped at the chance to repay the “debt.”
I never really realized how that time had effected me until I sat in the National Rescue Mission’s cafeteria. I could remember that because of overpopulation, they had to set us up in cots in the cafeteria. I remembered not understanding why we couldn’t go home, why I couldn’t see my Dad and why we had to live with a bunch of strangers. Not only that but when my Mother was growing up she was often homeless too. She was a runaway by nature and so she bounced around between girl’s homes and shelters. Unlike what I experienced, I was surprised to find that the shelter provided so many different programs. I always remembered being bored because there was nothing to do and for some reason I wasn’t allowed to play with the other children. I wish now that we had had some sort of art program rather then just the colouring book and crayon set I was given to play with. I also think the point system is brilliant. I’m sure that if we had something like that in the shelters in Baltimore, people wouldn’t come and go so often. My mother always said that she didn’t like hand-outs and even though she was at a shelter she wanted to work for what we were given. So I think the point system eliminates some of the helpless feelings as well as provides the participants with a fair way to earn supplies.
One thing that bothered me was how dirty every things was. There were a few art pieces made by participants hanging around that were caked with dirt. I can understand that they just don’t have the time to go out and trim hedges or repaint bathrooms like they’d want to but a simple maintenance cleanup shouldn’t be a problem.
VirginiaVerburg
Final Reflection
Virginia Verburg
The trip to Nashville was a very enlightening experience for me. At first I was scared of what I had gotten myself into, but eventually I realized how caring and appreciative some of the clients we helped out could be. I don’t think that any of the students that went on the trip can walk away as the same person they used to be. On the trip I learned to be more tolerant, to not judge people based on their past, and I realized that everyone has potential to turn their life around.
Working in the GED classes was the most rewarding part of the trip. As an education major, I definitely worked with a group of people that many people in my profession have not. It was difficult to look at the board in the Nashville Rescue Mission and see so many people my age. I also taught one of the men in the reading class who was 21. Everyone has a story about why they were there or had been there. It could have been drugs, alcohol, abuse, criminal activity, or just plain bad luck. I started the trip honestly thinking that the people I was helping wouldn’t appreciate the help we were giving them or use it properly. Now I’m not sure why I thought that.
In the GED classes I met a man named Jerome. He had a hard time with spelling, pronunciation, grammar, and remembering what he had read. While I was helping him with his work he opened up to me about his life through the passages. One time he told me about a cat his grandma used to have. He was also very surprised to learn that gorillas could use sign language to communicate with humans. Teaching and working with him gave me the same satisfaction as it would to teach an elementary student. Everyone has the potential to learn. The men at the mission have a lot to learn and more importantly they want to learn. It was great to see so many people trying to do better and get their GED.
Another part of the trip that really touched me was working in the Music City Mission. Although I didn’t get to interact very much with the clients that came in, it was so nice to see the faces of the mothers and children we were working for. One of the students knew Spanish and was able to translate some for the women and children. I think more people need to volunteer there that can speak Spanish. I could tell it really helped them a lot by having a translator. Something that was a little upsetting to me was that there was a limit to how many diapers mothers were allowed to have. I would hate to think that a child had to stay in a dirty diaper or none at all. There were so many clothes and bedding at the mission and it really warmed my heart to see how many people donated.
The part of the trip that touched me the most were three gentlemen that worked in the Nashville Rescue Mission. One of them had been in the program before, graduated, and was now working for the mission. He held an amazing dinner for all of us that I never expected. While I enjoyed the food he prepared for us I found myself feeling guilty that others could not share the meal with us. Another gentlemen was the kitchen manager who I worked with a few times. His daughter had went missing and he was very worried about her but still came to work and worked as hard as he would any other day. I was amazed to see him working so diligently and I was glad to pray with him before we left. The last gentlemen was a man I had not met but who knew other students there. He came into the computer lab while a few of us were working and prayed for all of us, our friends, and our families. He didn’t pray a single word for himself and it really touched my heart that he truly cared about us.
By Thursday I found myself wanting to go back to the mission to keep helping out there. I loved working in the classrooms and I wish I could have spent more time there. The trip truly opened my mind and exposed me to a lot of things I would have never known about the homeless population. I am very grateful for the experience and I will never forget the time I spent there.
Virginia Verburg
The trip to Nashville was a very enlightening experience for me. At first I was scared of what I had gotten myself into, but eventually I realized how caring and appreciative some of the clients we helped out could be. I don’t think that any of the students that went on the trip can walk away as the same person they used to be. On the trip I learned to be more tolerant, to not judge people based on their past, and I realized that everyone has potential to turn their life around.
Working in the GED classes was the most rewarding part of the trip. As an education major, I definitely worked with a group of people that many people in my profession have not. It was difficult to look at the board in the Nashville Rescue Mission and see so many people my age. I also taught one of the men in the reading class who was 21. Everyone has a story about why they were there or had been there. It could have been drugs, alcohol, abuse, criminal activity, or just plain bad luck. I started the trip honestly thinking that the people I was helping wouldn’t appreciate the help we were giving them or use it properly. Now I’m not sure why I thought that.
In the GED classes I met a man named Jerome. He had a hard time with spelling, pronunciation, grammar, and remembering what he had read. While I was helping him with his work he opened up to me about his life through the passages. One time he told me about a cat his grandma used to have. He was also very surprised to learn that gorillas could use sign language to communicate with humans. Teaching and working with him gave me the same satisfaction as it would to teach an elementary student. Everyone has the potential to learn. The men at the mission have a lot to learn and more importantly they want to learn. It was great to see so many people trying to do better and get their GED.
Another part of the trip that really touched me was working in the Music City Mission. Although I didn’t get to interact very much with the clients that came in, it was so nice to see the faces of the mothers and children we were working for. One of the students knew Spanish and was able to translate some for the women and children. I think more people need to volunteer there that can speak Spanish. I could tell it really helped them a lot by having a translator. Something that was a little upsetting to me was that there was a limit to how many diapers mothers were allowed to have. I would hate to think that a child had to stay in a dirty diaper or none at all. There were so many clothes and bedding at the mission and it really warmed my heart to see how many people donated.
The part of the trip that touched me the most were three gentlemen that worked in the Nashville Rescue Mission. One of them had been in the program before, graduated, and was now working for the mission. He held an amazing dinner for all of us that I never expected. While I enjoyed the food he prepared for us I found myself feeling guilty that others could not share the meal with us. Another gentlemen was the kitchen manager who I worked with a few times. His daughter had went missing and he was very worried about her but still came to work and worked as hard as he would any other day. I was amazed to see him working so diligently and I was glad to pray with him before we left. The last gentlemen was a man I had not met but who knew other students there. He came into the computer lab while a few of us were working and prayed for all of us, our friends, and our families. He didn’t pray a single word for himself and it really touched my heart that he truly cared about us.
By Thursday I found myself wanting to go back to the mission to keep helping out there. I loved working in the classrooms and I wish I could have spent more time there. The trip truly opened my mind and exposed me to a lot of things I would have never known about the homeless population. I am very grateful for the experience and I will never forget the time I spent there.
ChristineFernandes
Reflection
We spent our last day on our alternate spring break back at the Nashville rescue mission this time round I was placed in the kitchen. We were greeted by two people who appeared to supervise the kitchen Mike was one of them he was a tall guy with a warm smile, he asked us to clean potatoes and chop up bread. I was glad to finally get to work in the kitchen even if it was the last day since I wanted to know how and where the food came from. I looked at the packages carrying the bread most of them were donations from bakeries days’ old bread that they would normally get of the shelves. The people working in the kitchen appear to be happy at work and it seems to me as though they enjoy the wok they do, every pair of hands is put to work and everyone works to help each other. The supervisors and the people working in the kitchen were extremely patient and understanding in explain to us how to do different tasks. I got around to talk to one or two of the people working there I nicknamed one of the men Bernie Mack as a joke as he was very funny, Mike was my favorite person to work with and always seemed to have something for us to do. Later we were asked to sort out through boiled out turkey the bones and then the pastries that seemed to me donated by the dozens. My favorite part of the day was when we were asked to serve the food to the incoming participants. Apart from the many thank you’s we got the smiles and blessings made my day.The Mission asked us to stay for dinner as they said they were preparing a big dinner for us. I thought that it was extremely generous and thoughtful of them to do so. When we had finished working for the day and we were surprised when all of us were lead to the conference room set aside for business events beautifully setup with fancy table wear and food set as a thank you to us for our service. After a word from the site supervisor we ate and thanked the people who served us. We were given a chance to get to know the people while we were eating as they joined us at the tables. We were not allowed to take clean up or help out, it was a great feeling to be appreciated so much for the work we did and to be thanked over and over again. I imagine this experience to be one of the best I have ever had and even remember a comment that one of the participants had passed, “ I cant believe you guys gave up spring break to help out here”. That comment now strikes me as odd now as all I can remember is going more than I expected in character and good times.
Thank you Bonner! =)
We spent our last day on our alternate spring break back at the Nashville rescue mission this time round I was placed in the kitchen. We were greeted by two people who appeared to supervise the kitchen Mike was one of them he was a tall guy with a warm smile, he asked us to clean potatoes and chop up bread. I was glad to finally get to work in the kitchen even if it was the last day since I wanted to know how and where the food came from. I looked at the packages carrying the bread most of them were donations from bakeries days’ old bread that they would normally get of the shelves. The people working in the kitchen appear to be happy at work and it seems to me as though they enjoy the wok they do, every pair of hands is put to work and everyone works to help each other. The supervisors and the people working in the kitchen were extremely patient and understanding in explain to us how to do different tasks. I got around to talk to one or two of the people working there I nicknamed one of the men Bernie Mack as a joke as he was very funny, Mike was my favorite person to work with and always seemed to have something for us to do. Later we were asked to sort out through boiled out turkey the bones and then the pastries that seemed to me donated by the dozens. My favorite part of the day was when we were asked to serve the food to the incoming participants. Apart from the many thank you’s we got the smiles and blessings made my day.The Mission asked us to stay for dinner as they said they were preparing a big dinner for us. I thought that it was extremely generous and thoughtful of them to do so. When we had finished working for the day and we were surprised when all of us were lead to the conference room set aside for business events beautifully setup with fancy table wear and food set as a thank you to us for our service. After a word from the site supervisor we ate and thanked the people who served us. We were given a chance to get to know the people while we were eating as they joined us at the tables. We were not allowed to take clean up or help out, it was a great feeling to be appreciated so much for the work we did and to be thanked over and over again. I imagine this experience to be one of the best I have ever had and even remember a comment that one of the participants had passed, “ I cant believe you guys gave up spring break to help out here”. That comment now strikes me as odd now as all I can remember is going more than I expected in character and good times.
Thank you Bonner! =)
PradipAdhikari
Journal
4th day
Pradip Adhikari
10/03/09
Sally Campbell, Ph.D.
Campus for Human Development
Today was fourth day of our trip. We had to work for the Campus for Human Development for today. Campus for Human Development is the privately organized organization which has been helping homeless people with different kinds of services. We reached over there at 9 AM. We met windy over there who was a very good person. She was the director of the Campus for the Human Development.
We had a trip around the Campus for the Human Development first. Windy told us about different kinds of the services that were provided to the homeless people over there. She talked about the beds, classes, food and other different facilities that were provided to the homeless people over there. As she talked about Campus for the Human Development we got to know that it was an organization that helped the homeless people not only by providing them food and shelter but also they were educating those people so that they could stand in the society and live a normal life as other people. They were also helping homeless people to find a matching job so that they could earn their own living and go back to their community. We got to know that every people there were taught to be a good human being. Windy also showed the new project they were having according to which they were building some more buildings so that they could help more people and provide some more facility. After the trip we started our work. We had to paint the bathroom over there for today, it was fun. We painted four bathrooms, as we painted bathrooms we met some homeless people who had been using the facilities over there. All those people were very good people, they welcomed us and even thanked for the effort made by us.
After we were done with work Windy gave us a paper which was talking about the Campus for Human Development “Through the power of spirituality and the practice of love, the Campus for Human Development provides hospitality with a respect that offers hope in a community of non-violence.” That was exactly what we got to see at the Campus for the Human Development. Spirituality, Love, Hospitality, Respect, Hope, Community, and Non-violence were the human behaviors that were taught to the people over there. We could see spirituality, love, hospitality, respect, hope, community and non-violence as the pillars of the life aspect of the people over there. They were trying learning those aspects and using them in their day to day to life so that they could be independent and live their own life. Overall we had a very good time over there and got to learn something more about the homeless people today.
4th day
Pradip Adhikari
10/03/09
Sally Campbell, Ph.D.
Campus for Human Development
Today was fourth day of our trip. We had to work for the Campus for Human Development for today. Campus for Human Development is the privately organized organization which has been helping homeless people with different kinds of services. We reached over there at 9 AM. We met windy over there who was a very good person. She was the director of the Campus for the Human Development.
We had a trip around the Campus for the Human Development first. Windy told us about different kinds of the services that were provided to the homeless people over there. She talked about the beds, classes, food and other different facilities that were provided to the homeless people over there. As she talked about Campus for the Human Development we got to know that it was an organization that helped the homeless people not only by providing them food and shelter but also they were educating those people so that they could stand in the society and live a normal life as other people. They were also helping homeless people to find a matching job so that they could earn their own living and go back to their community. We got to know that every people there were taught to be a good human being. Windy also showed the new project they were having according to which they were building some more buildings so that they could help more people and provide some more facility. After the trip we started our work. We had to paint the bathroom over there for today, it was fun. We painted four bathrooms, as we painted bathrooms we met some homeless people who had been using the facilities over there. All those people were very good people, they welcomed us and even thanked for the effort made by us.
After we were done with work Windy gave us a paper which was talking about the Campus for Human Development “Through the power of spirituality and the practice of love, the Campus for Human Development provides hospitality with a respect that offers hope in a community of non-violence.” That was exactly what we got to see at the Campus for the Human Development. Spirituality, Love, Hospitality, Respect, Hope, Community, and Non-violence were the human behaviors that were taught to the people over there. We could see spirituality, love, hospitality, respect, hope, community and non-violence as the pillars of the life aspect of the people over there. They were trying learning those aspects and using them in their day to day to life so that they could be independent and live their own life. Overall we had a very good time over there and got to learn something more about the homeless people today.
Monday, March 16, 2009
KristinaChampe
Kristina Champe
Alternative Spring Break
Reflection
Day 5
Today was our last day at the Nashville Rescue Mission. It was pretty sad but we all made the best of it. All of the groups split up to do different things and it was super fun. This time some of the girls went up to help teach the GED classes. They said they had a great time. The group that I was apart of was down in the basement, and we separated some canned goods into boxes to make it easier for them to see what they had. Some of the others cleared off shelves to make room for some cans because we had so many. I swear we had 3 huge boxes of green beans and 2 big boxes of corn. It was fun and chaotic all at the same time! We took a break and ate lunch which was actually really good so that was nice, and while we were eating we were wondering what we were going to be doing for dinner. A girl from the group said that she had heard that the people at the mission had made a special dinner for us. We were so excited. After lunch we went back to our duties in the basement and it was so much fun. I took pictures and everyone seemed to be in better spirits. Of course there were some people whose favorite spot happened to be the benches in the bathroom; they were dubbed the “texting benches”. They were for girls who were tired of ‘working’ and decided they would go hide out in the bathroom and text. This was disrespectful and lazy on so many levels. Anyway, after we got finished working we went upstairs to the dinning hall and waited a few minutes for dinner. To our surprise they took us out of the dinning hall and into a conference room where they had decorated it very nice and had amazing food. We were so happy, and they main guy who was there in charge, gave a little speech and said they were so thankful that we came that week and he thanked us for everything. I almost cried I was so happy! After we ate I was sad that we were leaving and not coming back the next day.
This trip has helped me in so many ways. I will never take anything I have for granted, and I will learn to enjoy life, because you never know what will happen. I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to attend this trip and I hope that Concord offers more trips like this for students in the future. I think that students could really benefit from this!
Thanks again to everyone who helped make this trip possible!
Alternative Spring Break
Reflection
Day 5
Today was our last day at the Nashville Rescue Mission. It was pretty sad but we all made the best of it. All of the groups split up to do different things and it was super fun. This time some of the girls went up to help teach the GED classes. They said they had a great time. The group that I was apart of was down in the basement, and we separated some canned goods into boxes to make it easier for them to see what they had. Some of the others cleared off shelves to make room for some cans because we had so many. I swear we had 3 huge boxes of green beans and 2 big boxes of corn. It was fun and chaotic all at the same time! We took a break and ate lunch which was actually really good so that was nice, and while we were eating we were wondering what we were going to be doing for dinner. A girl from the group said that she had heard that the people at the mission had made a special dinner for us. We were so excited. After lunch we went back to our duties in the basement and it was so much fun. I took pictures and everyone seemed to be in better spirits. Of course there were some people whose favorite spot happened to be the benches in the bathroom; they were dubbed the “texting benches”. They were for girls who were tired of ‘working’ and decided they would go hide out in the bathroom and text. This was disrespectful and lazy on so many levels. Anyway, after we got finished working we went upstairs to the dinning hall and waited a few minutes for dinner. To our surprise they took us out of the dinning hall and into a conference room where they had decorated it very nice and had amazing food. We were so happy, and they main guy who was there in charge, gave a little speech and said they were so thankful that we came that week and he thanked us for everything. I almost cried I was so happy! After we ate I was sad that we were leaving and not coming back the next day.
This trip has helped me in so many ways. I will never take anything I have for granted, and I will learn to enjoy life, because you never know what will happen. I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to attend this trip and I hope that Concord offers more trips like this for students in the future. I think that students could really benefit from this!
Thanks again to everyone who helped make this trip possible!
MeganWebber
Megan Webber
ASB Reflections
March 11, 2009
Today was spent at Campus for Human Development, and I absolutely loved it. If it ever crossed my mind to work in the community development area of Social Work this would be what I wanted to do, and more than likely I’d want to return and work with Wendy and Campus for Human Development. Compared to the Nashville Rescue Mission, it was a 110% difference and change in atmosphere. When we first entered the building today it just seemed so much homier. There were people hanging out outside just sitting on benches and chairs enjoy the nice day, while people inside were watching TV or talking to others. It was like there was a level of freedom there that gave them the opportunity to just take a load off and enjoy some free time off the streets of Nashville.
Wendy has worked at CHD for a year and a half now, but volunteered for about 7 years before this. With this being said, you can really tell that the men and women that come through the doors of the establishment truly respect her. Someone asked how she gained so much respect and the main thing she said when responding was that she gives the people their respect back. While at CHD a couple of our group members were sorting books and making sure they were in good condition. While we were all sitting outside doing this there was a conflict between one of the workers and a homeless man. I’m not sure about the exact details, but the homeless man acted like he was going to jump at the worker. Wendy walked over just to ask what was going on and the homeless man walked away and didn’t even pursue the confrontation with the other man. To me, that showed a definite level of respect for Wendy. He respected her enough to just walk away, even though he was obviously very angry, and not just ignore her concerns.
I got a chance to talk to some of the women entering CDH, and spent a lot of time talking to this one woman in particular. When I asked if she would be willing to tell me her story she opened right up and said she was a domestic violence victim. She talked a lot about how, although she’s homeless and her life isn’t wonderful, she needed to leave her boyfriend to save her life. She, also, talked about previous times she had run away from her boyfriend he had found her even when she had gone to a different state. It was just really scary, and made me feel hopeless just listening to her story. I can’t imagine how she feels, but she did the right thing by leaving her husband, and hopefully it ends up being that her life is saved. She really impacted me a lot and I was very grateful to be able to have the opportunity to hear her story.
Today was an awesome day! Wendy took time to explain why we were doing certain things so it really felt like we were making small differences and accomplishing small tasks that would eventually go towards something in the bigger picture. The mission statement for Campus for Human Development is the following: “Through the power of spirituality and the practice of love, the Campus for Human Development provides hospitality with respect that offers hope in a community or non-violence.” The seven bolded words are the core values they believe in. I experienced something I could relate to each of these seven words today. The atmosphere and power that the Campus of Human Development generates is amazing, and the people that enter through the doors of that small building are truly blessed.
ASB Reflections
March 11, 2009
Today was spent at Campus for Human Development, and I absolutely loved it. If it ever crossed my mind to work in the community development area of Social Work this would be what I wanted to do, and more than likely I’d want to return and work with Wendy and Campus for Human Development. Compared to the Nashville Rescue Mission, it was a 110% difference and change in atmosphere. When we first entered the building today it just seemed so much homier. There were people hanging out outside just sitting on benches and chairs enjoy the nice day, while people inside were watching TV or talking to others. It was like there was a level of freedom there that gave them the opportunity to just take a load off and enjoy some free time off the streets of Nashville.
Wendy has worked at CHD for a year and a half now, but volunteered for about 7 years before this. With this being said, you can really tell that the men and women that come through the doors of the establishment truly respect her. Someone asked how she gained so much respect and the main thing she said when responding was that she gives the people their respect back. While at CHD a couple of our group members were sorting books and making sure they were in good condition. While we were all sitting outside doing this there was a conflict between one of the workers and a homeless man. I’m not sure about the exact details, but the homeless man acted like he was going to jump at the worker. Wendy walked over just to ask what was going on and the homeless man walked away and didn’t even pursue the confrontation with the other man. To me, that showed a definite level of respect for Wendy. He respected her enough to just walk away, even though he was obviously very angry, and not just ignore her concerns.
I got a chance to talk to some of the women entering CDH, and spent a lot of time talking to this one woman in particular. When I asked if she would be willing to tell me her story she opened right up and said she was a domestic violence victim. She talked a lot about how, although she’s homeless and her life isn’t wonderful, she needed to leave her boyfriend to save her life. She, also, talked about previous times she had run away from her boyfriend he had found her even when she had gone to a different state. It was just really scary, and made me feel hopeless just listening to her story. I can’t imagine how she feels, but she did the right thing by leaving her husband, and hopefully it ends up being that her life is saved. She really impacted me a lot and I was very grateful to be able to have the opportunity to hear her story.
Today was an awesome day! Wendy took time to explain why we were doing certain things so it really felt like we were making small differences and accomplishing small tasks that would eventually go towards something in the bigger picture. The mission statement for Campus for Human Development is the following: “Through the power of spirituality and the practice of love, the Campus for Human Development provides hospitality with respect that offers hope in a community or non-violence.” The seven bolded words are the core values they believe in. I experienced something I could relate to each of these seven words today. The atmosphere and power that the Campus of Human Development generates is amazing, and the people that enter through the doors of that small building are truly blessed.
VanVu
Entry for March 8th, 2009
2:00 a.m, we were still awake! After a hard-working day, nobody wanted to go to bed soon. Our roommates were chatting on Facebook and listening to music while Mai, Tung and I were playing cards. We offered a funny rule that each loser will be drawn one thing on his or her face by the winner. Unfortunately, it turned out that I was the only person who had so many pictures that I bet you couldn’t find any free space left on my face. That was the time we decided to stop the game. However, we still did not go to bed after that. Tung and Mai watched movies when I was chatting with my friends back home. Today is International Women’s day in Vietnam. On this day, we celebrate it; all the women (and the girls as well) are received all the priorities, the presents, the colorful flowers and the best greetings from the men and from the other girls who care about them (It’s normally their children, sisters or colleagues). I was so happy to receive my friends’ greetings and to send mine to the others.
4:00 a.m, I finally wanted to go to bed. My eyes were so tired and so hurt that they even didn’t want to open. Mai and Tung have felt asleep. Tung slept so smoothly that I didn’t want to wake him up. “Ok! It’s fine, so today we have an extra roommate and an extra bedmate”, I thought, “at least, 3 of us (Mai, Tung and I) were all so skinny that we could fit in one bed”.
11:50 a.m, I woke up after hearing something a little bit noisy. Our roommates have waken up and had breakfast. “Oh, man!!! I miss my breakfast again!”, I said. We were going to have a meeting at 12:30pm so I had to dress up quickly. Today we would go to the Nashville Visual Art. We had lunch at there. When lining up, I read the menu. They had nothing but salads, sandwiches and some kids’ choices. I don’t like any salads as well as sandwiches. I had no idea what I would offer but French fries. After seeing the table which wrote all today’s special offers, I almost jumped up because they had Cheese pizza, one of my favorite food. However, it might not be my good-luck day after all when the salesman said that my cheese pizza had totally gone. I was so mad and reluctantly changed my order to something called Grilled chicken wrap. I thought that it was a kind of chicken tender and almost forgot about the “wrap” word. The only thing that I concentrated on is that my empty stomach was going on strike and my powerless body was playing the crazily hungry dancing. After ten minutes waiting for the food, the beautiful waitress finally brought my meal to my table. The Grilled chicken wrap is totally green, cold and absolutely pukable (at least is with me). I only ate French fries to fill my stomach and keep me alive until the dinner.
After lunch, we went into the Visual art. The first floor had nothing but the pictures & sculptures. It’s almost about the sacrifice of Christ, the sacred of Jesus, the purity of the Virgin and the baby. The artworks are collected mostly from French and Germany. I’m not a religious person and I have no idea about Jesus as well as the Christians. However, when I looked at the artworks and their descriptions, I knew that Jesus was betrayed because of posing as God’s son and finally was nailed up on a cross. I saw many sculptures which craved the death of Jesus. They all were so precise and show up the sacred, proud and grave feeling of the death. I only feel excited with & interesting in the sculptures, which could attract my eyes & my attention, which are something that I can look at all the small details and having a visual feeling of material & 3- dimensions structure. Therefore I only spend my time before the big sculptures and keep watching them with ease.
After finish watching all the sculptures in the first floor, I climbed upstairs and did some artwork by myself. It’s extremely a blast when I could draw, print and design whatever I want to. We left the Nashville Visual Art around 5:00 pm and burst out. Some of my friends who live in Nashville came to pick Mai, Tung and I up to a Vietnamese restaurant called “Kien Giang”. We had a great dinner, and then went around Nashville to enjoy the beautiful sight at night since all the Malls and entertainment place were closed at 6:00pm. Enjoying the rest of Sunday by playing some cards and pokers with my friends, I actually had so much fun as well as plentiful of great pictures for today (that couldn’t be written in only two pages, of course)!
2:00 a.m, we were still awake! After a hard-working day, nobody wanted to go to bed soon. Our roommates were chatting on Facebook and listening to music while Mai, Tung and I were playing cards. We offered a funny rule that each loser will be drawn one thing on his or her face by the winner. Unfortunately, it turned out that I was the only person who had so many pictures that I bet you couldn’t find any free space left on my face. That was the time we decided to stop the game. However, we still did not go to bed after that. Tung and Mai watched movies when I was chatting with my friends back home. Today is International Women’s day in Vietnam. On this day, we celebrate it; all the women (and the girls as well) are received all the priorities, the presents, the colorful flowers and the best greetings from the men and from the other girls who care about them (It’s normally their children, sisters or colleagues). I was so happy to receive my friends’ greetings and to send mine to the others.
4:00 a.m, I finally wanted to go to bed. My eyes were so tired and so hurt that they even didn’t want to open. Mai and Tung have felt asleep. Tung slept so smoothly that I didn’t want to wake him up. “Ok! It’s fine, so today we have an extra roommate and an extra bedmate”, I thought, “at least, 3 of us (Mai, Tung and I) were all so skinny that we could fit in one bed”.
11:50 a.m, I woke up after hearing something a little bit noisy. Our roommates have waken up and had breakfast. “Oh, man!!! I miss my breakfast again!”, I said. We were going to have a meeting at 12:30pm so I had to dress up quickly. Today we would go to the Nashville Visual Art. We had lunch at there. When lining up, I read the menu. They had nothing but salads, sandwiches and some kids’ choices. I don’t like any salads as well as sandwiches. I had no idea what I would offer but French fries. After seeing the table which wrote all today’s special offers, I almost jumped up because they had Cheese pizza, one of my favorite food. However, it might not be my good-luck day after all when the salesman said that my cheese pizza had totally gone. I was so mad and reluctantly changed my order to something called Grilled chicken wrap. I thought that it was a kind of chicken tender and almost forgot about the “wrap” word. The only thing that I concentrated on is that my empty stomach was going on strike and my powerless body was playing the crazily hungry dancing. After ten minutes waiting for the food, the beautiful waitress finally brought my meal to my table. The Grilled chicken wrap is totally green, cold and absolutely pukable (at least is with me). I only ate French fries to fill my stomach and keep me alive until the dinner.
After lunch, we went into the Visual art. The first floor had nothing but the pictures & sculptures. It’s almost about the sacrifice of Christ, the sacred of Jesus, the purity of the Virgin and the baby. The artworks are collected mostly from French and Germany. I’m not a religious person and I have no idea about Jesus as well as the Christians. However, when I looked at the artworks and their descriptions, I knew that Jesus was betrayed because of posing as God’s son and finally was nailed up on a cross. I saw many sculptures which craved the death of Jesus. They all were so precise and show up the sacred, proud and grave feeling of the death. I only feel excited with & interesting in the sculptures, which could attract my eyes & my attention, which are something that I can look at all the small details and having a visual feeling of material & 3- dimensions structure. Therefore I only spend my time before the big sculptures and keep watching them with ease.
After finish watching all the sculptures in the first floor, I climbed upstairs and did some artwork by myself. It’s extremely a blast when I could draw, print and design whatever I want to. We left the Nashville Visual Art around 5:00 pm and burst out. Some of my friends who live in Nashville came to pick Mai, Tung and I up to a Vietnamese restaurant called “Kien Giang”. We had a great dinner, and then went around Nashville to enjoy the beautiful sight at night since all the Malls and entertainment place were closed at 6:00pm. Enjoying the rest of Sunday by playing some cards and pokers with my friends, I actually had so much fun as well as plentiful of great pictures for today (that couldn’t be written in only two pages, of course)!
SamanthaThomas
Samantha Thomas
2-10-09
Reflection 3
Today was a day of clarification for a couple of teammates and I today. We were assigned to work in the clothing closet where the men of the program at the Nashville Rescue Mission can receive any needed clothing for six out of the seven days. Today, we had to sort tee shirts, dress shirts, pullovers, jackets, pants, dress pants and shoes into their corresponding sizes. While sorting through the second-hand clothing, I realized how much better I had life than almost 500 homeless that live in Nashville. I couldn’t imagine how it would feel to come from wearing decent clothing with no holes, no stains, and no wear to wearing what these men wore every day. While so many of the girls on the trip wear their Aeropostale and Gucci and still find discontent in their appearances.
Speaking of which, I must vent because to be quite frankly honest, I don’t believe many of those girls feel any different than when they arrived. They signed up for the free trip and not the free mission trip. Sometimes I have found myself becoming quite frustrated when I see how lightly they are taking the situation. It’s as if they aren’t even here in Nashville with us, but rather with each other on some joy ride. Some of them seem almost afraid of the individuals in the program because they won’t so much as make eye contact or say hello. And even though sometimes the workload varies from group to group from day to day, there should be an equal impact. It really doesn’t matter whether that impact is on a personal level with some of the individuals of the program or whether it affects the large group of homeless through the sorting we have done in the warehouse. I’m just hoping to see more out of these girls by the end of the week.
However, back to my initial reflection, I have found that these people that work at the shelter are the people who will remember your name the next time they see you. They aren’t like those who see your face and then immediately after can’t remember what letter your name began with. But also in addition to your name and your personality, these people are genuinely thankful for every minute of work that we have put in at their shelter. The difference is clear when taking a glance around in the once extremely cluttered and unsorted basement we were working in. Now, there are general locations for every item. Everyone knows where the sheets, blankets, toiletries, general appliances, etc belong. Everything is beginning to find its place in this huge space. Everything is finally beginning to make sense. Why we are here. What our purpose is. How we are affecting these peoples’ lives.
2-10-09
Reflection 3
Today was a day of clarification for a couple of teammates and I today. We were assigned to work in the clothing closet where the men of the program at the Nashville Rescue Mission can receive any needed clothing for six out of the seven days. Today, we had to sort tee shirts, dress shirts, pullovers, jackets, pants, dress pants and shoes into their corresponding sizes. While sorting through the second-hand clothing, I realized how much better I had life than almost 500 homeless that live in Nashville. I couldn’t imagine how it would feel to come from wearing decent clothing with no holes, no stains, and no wear to wearing what these men wore every day. While so many of the girls on the trip wear their Aeropostale and Gucci and still find discontent in their appearances.
Speaking of which, I must vent because to be quite frankly honest, I don’t believe many of those girls feel any different than when they arrived. They signed up for the free trip and not the free mission trip. Sometimes I have found myself becoming quite frustrated when I see how lightly they are taking the situation. It’s as if they aren’t even here in Nashville with us, but rather with each other on some joy ride. Some of them seem almost afraid of the individuals in the program because they won’t so much as make eye contact or say hello. And even though sometimes the workload varies from group to group from day to day, there should be an equal impact. It really doesn’t matter whether that impact is on a personal level with some of the individuals of the program or whether it affects the large group of homeless through the sorting we have done in the warehouse. I’m just hoping to see more out of these girls by the end of the week.
However, back to my initial reflection, I have found that these people that work at the shelter are the people who will remember your name the next time they see you. They aren’t like those who see your face and then immediately after can’t remember what letter your name began with. But also in addition to your name and your personality, these people are genuinely thankful for every minute of work that we have put in at their shelter. The difference is clear when taking a glance around in the once extremely cluttered and unsorted basement we were working in. Now, there are general locations for every item. Everyone knows where the sheets, blankets, toiletries, general appliances, etc belong. Everything is beginning to find its place in this huge space. Everything is finally beginning to make sense. Why we are here. What our purpose is. How we are affecting these peoples’ lives.
VanessaAustin
Today was definitely better than all of the other days that we have been here. We went to the Campus for Human Development. Today was really the first day that I have really had any interaction with some of the homeless. We took a tour of the building first. She told us all of the history of how the program got started and what some of their programs are. They try to help the people that come into the shelter better their lives through art, cultural activities, and other classes that teach them how to live better. I really enjoyed today.
My favorite part of the day was when we went to the art room. A few of the guys were in there for a class. When we walked in the room, the guys were so proud of their work. They were really eager to show us what they were working on and to show us what they had already done. The men were just so proud of themselves and it made me really happy to see that a program like this has made such an impact on their lives and how they feel about themselves. One of the men actually said that being homeless has been more of a blessing than the rest of his life. I’m sure that the campus has a huge part in that statement. It showed me that these programs do make a difference.
One of the other guys urged us to go and look down the alleys and see how the homeless really live. He said that someone found a homeless guy shot to death in an alley on one of the streets close to where we were. He wanted us to really experience and see how the homeless really live and what their surroundings really look like. It would be nice to see that but I highly doubt that its going to happen.
I helped paint some of the bathrooms and cubicles that the people can keep their belongings in a safe way. I was covered in paint by the end of the day but I had fun doing it. It was nice to be able to actually see the improvement of the appearance of the campus.
My favorite part of the day was when we went to the art room. A few of the guys were in there for a class. When we walked in the room, the guys were so proud of their work. They were really eager to show us what they were working on and to show us what they had already done. The men were just so proud of themselves and it made me really happy to see that a program like this has made such an impact on their lives and how they feel about themselves. One of the men actually said that being homeless has been more of a blessing than the rest of his life. I’m sure that the campus has a huge part in that statement. It showed me that these programs do make a difference.
One of the other guys urged us to go and look down the alleys and see how the homeless really live. He said that someone found a homeless guy shot to death in an alley on one of the streets close to where we were. He wanted us to really experience and see how the homeless really live and what their surroundings really look like. It would be nice to see that but I highly doubt that its going to happen.
I helped paint some of the bathrooms and cubicles that the people can keep their belongings in a safe way. I was covered in paint by the end of the day but I had fun doing it. It was nice to be able to actually see the improvement of the appearance of the campus.
TacyPyles
Tacy Pyles
Dr. Campbell
TN Alternative Spring Break
Journal Entry 4
11 March 2009
Today was our last day of volunteering - a day of last-minute goodbyes, words of appreciation, hugs, laughter and pictures. We went back to the Nashville Rescue Mission and once again divided up, with some people working in the education department, some working in the basement and some (including me) working in the kitchen.
While in the kitchen, we were finally given the opportunity I had long awaited - the chance to be behind the counter serving as both the program participants and homeless men went through the line. Team work became essential as the line quickly grew and the people kept coming faster. But, what really hit me hard was watching the men from the program - standing in line before they got their food - watching them pray for us. We need to serve them. We need to love them. We came to be a blessing and I stood and watched them pour prayers over us.
We watched man after man walk by - beginning first with those that were disabled. Just to get a chance to smile at them and say, “Have a good day” or ask how they was a privilege I will not get. Many with downcast eyes and pained expressions of embarrassment walked by while others smiled at us with all the joy in the world painted on their faces. I just wanted them to know we were there because we loved them and we had hope for their futures.
At the end of our work day, Billy (one of the men who works there) had prepared, with the help of a few others working at the mission, a wonderful meal for all of us in the conference room - gumbo, salad, sweet potatoes, deserts, chicken, cheese sticks and other delicious foods. As soon as we walked in, I thought I was going to cry. I just don’t understand how these people who gives their lives to this service of helping people are so touched by us taking one short week to come down and help. I don’t understand the beauty of grace. I cannot fathom the depths of love.
All throughout the day, I had wonderful opportunities to talk with man of the men at the mission and multiple times I was humbled by their selfless generosity, their desire to serve us and their passion for life. I know I have many thoughts running through my mind, but this is one of those days where words don’t do justice to emotions. We came to serve and I’m walking away from this covered in blessings.
I have tears running down my face and a broken heart. I don’t know what its like to walk in their shoes everyday, but I have gotten the chance to give them my smile and listen to their voice. I have had the opportunity to hear their stories and wrap my arms around them. I’ve been blessed to join in laughter and meal times with the homeless and the hurting. Now where do I go from here? Where will this take my life?
What has to change…?
Give me your eyes for just one second,
Give me your eyes so I can see,
Everything that I keep missing.
Give me your love for humanity.
Give me your arms for the brokenhearted -
The ones who are far beyond my reach.
Give me your eyes for just one second,
Give me your eyes so I can see.
Dr. Campbell
TN Alternative Spring Break
Journal Entry 4
11 March 2009
Today was our last day of volunteering - a day of last-minute goodbyes, words of appreciation, hugs, laughter and pictures. We went back to the Nashville Rescue Mission and once again divided up, with some people working in the education department, some working in the basement and some (including me) working in the kitchen.
While in the kitchen, we were finally given the opportunity I had long awaited - the chance to be behind the counter serving as both the program participants and homeless men went through the line. Team work became essential as the line quickly grew and the people kept coming faster. But, what really hit me hard was watching the men from the program - standing in line before they got their food - watching them pray for us. We need to serve them. We need to love them. We came to be a blessing and I stood and watched them pour prayers over us.
We watched man after man walk by - beginning first with those that were disabled. Just to get a chance to smile at them and say, “Have a good day” or ask how they was a privilege I will not get. Many with downcast eyes and pained expressions of embarrassment walked by while others smiled at us with all the joy in the world painted on their faces. I just wanted them to know we were there because we loved them and we had hope for their futures.
At the end of our work day, Billy (one of the men who works there) had prepared, with the help of a few others working at the mission, a wonderful meal for all of us in the conference room - gumbo, salad, sweet potatoes, deserts, chicken, cheese sticks and other delicious foods. As soon as we walked in, I thought I was going to cry. I just don’t understand how these people who gives their lives to this service of helping people are so touched by us taking one short week to come down and help. I don’t understand the beauty of grace. I cannot fathom the depths of love.
All throughout the day, I had wonderful opportunities to talk with man of the men at the mission and multiple times I was humbled by their selfless generosity, their desire to serve us and their passion for life. I know I have many thoughts running through my mind, but this is one of those days where words don’t do justice to emotions. We came to serve and I’m walking away from this covered in blessings.
I have tears running down my face and a broken heart. I don’t know what its like to walk in their shoes everyday, but I have gotten the chance to give them my smile and listen to their voice. I have had the opportunity to hear their stories and wrap my arms around them. I’ve been blessed to join in laughter and meal times with the homeless and the hurting. Now where do I go from here? Where will this take my life?
What has to change…?
Give me your eyes for just one second,
Give me your eyes so I can see,
Everything that I keep missing.
Give me your love for humanity.
Give me your arms for the brokenhearted -
The ones who are far beyond my reach.
Give me your eyes for just one second,
Give me your eyes so I can see.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
AkeyaCarterBozman
Akeya Carter-Bozman
Reflection Day 5
March 11, 2009
Sadly, today was our last day of service here in Nashville performing service. My day began with tutoring second level math (Algebra 1 and 2, Geometry and Trigonometry). I had a class of five wonderful selfless men with hearts so meek and kind. While the men worked on their GED study guides we discussed their dreams and goals upon graduating from the missions program. One man told us of his fifteen year addiction and his struggle to stay clean and sober. He told us how God and the directors of the mission stepped in helping him grow in life to become the man he is today. All week long I flocked to a man named Frank, when we met he said that he loved crack more than he loved his children and family at one time. Something inside me just couldn’t stop thinking of what he said.
Today as we discussed everything under the sun from religion to the economy that Frank was is some way like my biological father, because he too loved crack more than he loved being around for me. As Frank told me about his daughter Diamond who is my age, my expression turned from interest and concern to anger and hurt. I have never even told my mother about my feelings for my father, but here his man is in front of me that I barley knew and I’m opening up to him. Frank prayed that God would help me find peace of mind in my anger and that one day I would be able to forgive my father. He hugged me and thanked me for listening and I thanked helping me understand from an addicted father’s perspective.
I cried as I left the mission, not because I felt sorry for the men who lived their as I did on my first day there, but because they had given so much of themselves to me and the other volunteers. The men at the mission made a special dinner for us at the end of our day to thank us for all of our help throughout the week. The food was amazing but the friendships we made are priceless. As far as meeting Frank I am grateful for everything learned from them both about myself and them.
Reflection Day 5
March 11, 2009
Sadly, today was our last day of service here in Nashville performing service. My day began with tutoring second level math (Algebra 1 and 2, Geometry and Trigonometry). I had a class of five wonderful selfless men with hearts so meek and kind. While the men worked on their GED study guides we discussed their dreams and goals upon graduating from the missions program. One man told us of his fifteen year addiction and his struggle to stay clean and sober. He told us how God and the directors of the mission stepped in helping him grow in life to become the man he is today. All week long I flocked to a man named Frank, when we met he said that he loved crack more than he loved his children and family at one time. Something inside me just couldn’t stop thinking of what he said.
Today as we discussed everything under the sun from religion to the economy that Frank was is some way like my biological father, because he too loved crack more than he loved being around for me. As Frank told me about his daughter Diamond who is my age, my expression turned from interest and concern to anger and hurt. I have never even told my mother about my feelings for my father, but here his man is in front of me that I barley knew and I’m opening up to him. Frank prayed that God would help me find peace of mind in my anger and that one day I would be able to forgive my father. He hugged me and thanked me for listening and I thanked helping me understand from an addicted father’s perspective.
I cried as I left the mission, not because I felt sorry for the men who lived their as I did on my first day there, but because they had given so much of themselves to me and the other volunteers. The men at the mission made a special dinner for us at the end of our day to thank us for all of our help throughout the week. The food was amazing but the friendships we made are priceless. As far as meeting Frank I am grateful for everything learned from them both about myself and them.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
KaylaGreen
Kayla Green
Today was our last service day at the Nashville Mission and it was a nice day to end with. Today I started by helping teach one of the classes they have so people can work towards their GEDs. I really enjoyed helping the men in the class better understand the problems that as they explained to me were harder to understand the way the other people explained them. After I helped with the class I got to go back up and do some paper work and organizing for one of the people over the education department at the center. My high point of the day was when I talked a stubborn and lazy man into doing his math problems and helped another man figure out how to round up. My low point of the day was when I saw the appreciation dinner that the mission had for us and all I could think of was that I’d rather the men at the mission had gotten it because I could afford to buy my own food, I appreciated it and it was nice but I felt guilty eating it. My story of the day was when a man walked in and talked to one of the girls and gave her a picture with a saying on the back and then prayed for all of us in the room I really appreciated it. While I was in the room filing stuff and doing stuff the man we were doing it for talked to us about how he used to be on drugs really bad and how he was in college now and working at the program it was a very real example of how the program could turn someone’s life around so well. He encouraged us to join the other trip concord students are going on in april and said that he and one of his friends tried it for one night and ended up sleeping in a slide in a park. Oh and another funny story I wanted to share was that on our way home Jesse about hit three homeless looking people who tried to run across the road and we all joked about him going home from a service trip to help the homeless to admit that he had ran over three of them while there. This trip was an excellent way for me to have a fun rewarding experience over my break and I really appreciate that I got to come here and meet all of the wonderful people that we have worked with here in Nashville.
Today was our last service day at the Nashville Mission and it was a nice day to end with. Today I started by helping teach one of the classes they have so people can work towards their GEDs. I really enjoyed helping the men in the class better understand the problems that as they explained to me were harder to understand the way the other people explained them. After I helped with the class I got to go back up and do some paper work and organizing for one of the people over the education department at the center. My high point of the day was when I talked a stubborn and lazy man into doing his math problems and helped another man figure out how to round up. My low point of the day was when I saw the appreciation dinner that the mission had for us and all I could think of was that I’d rather the men at the mission had gotten it because I could afford to buy my own food, I appreciated it and it was nice but I felt guilty eating it. My story of the day was when a man walked in and talked to one of the girls and gave her a picture with a saying on the back and then prayed for all of us in the room I really appreciated it. While I was in the room filing stuff and doing stuff the man we were doing it for talked to us about how he used to be on drugs really bad and how he was in college now and working at the program it was a very real example of how the program could turn someone’s life around so well. He encouraged us to join the other trip concord students are going on in april and said that he and one of his friends tried it for one night and ended up sleeping in a slide in a park. Oh and another funny story I wanted to share was that on our way home Jesse about hit three homeless looking people who tried to run across the road and we all joked about him going home from a service trip to help the homeless to admit that he had ran over three of them while there. This trip was an excellent way for me to have a fun rewarding experience over my break and I really appreciate that I got to come here and meet all of the wonderful people that we have worked with here in Nashville.
KaylaGreen
Kayla Green
Today we went to the Music City Mission which was ran by the church next door. They handed out free clothes and food to people who needed it. They were very organized and when we arrived had jobs for all of us lined up to do. They were organizing clothes, and food, and cleaning up outside. At the beginning I was helping to wash out the trash cans and recycle bins, and then I cleaned up trash in the yard and raked up leaves. My low point of the day came when I was helping to organize the clothes and after the head of the Mission told me I couldn’t let people look through the clothes I was organizing a woman kept asking to look at the baby clothes, I’m not someone who usually tells people no they can’t do something so it was really hard to tell her that I couldn’t let her. My high point of today was when I was able to compile an email list of all the past volunteers for the mission and got to see they amount of other people willing to help. A lot of the people who came to the mission for help today spoke Spanish and I got to watch one of my friends who had taken Spanish class interact with them and get to help a little girl find something that she wanted. My random story was when we were at mall later tonight and one of our groups saw some of the people who visited there in newer nicer clothes looking better and with lots of shopping bags it just shows that some people will take advantage of good programs just to get more. The fact that small of a church had the initiative to do something on such a scale gave me a real respect for them. They were very organized and seemed to be very efficient with very little waste compared to the other programs we visited it might have been because it was smaller but I believe that it also said something about the level of leadership that was present. They said that they provided food and clothing for a lot of people who were illegal immigrants and I found that interesting cause I always pictured that illegal immigrants to be something that happened mainly near the coasts and not a lot inland.
Today we went to the Music City Mission which was ran by the church next door. They handed out free clothes and food to people who needed it. They were very organized and when we arrived had jobs for all of us lined up to do. They were organizing clothes, and food, and cleaning up outside. At the beginning I was helping to wash out the trash cans and recycle bins, and then I cleaned up trash in the yard and raked up leaves. My low point of the day came when I was helping to organize the clothes and after the head of the Mission told me I couldn’t let people look through the clothes I was organizing a woman kept asking to look at the baby clothes, I’m not someone who usually tells people no they can’t do something so it was really hard to tell her that I couldn’t let her. My high point of today was when I was able to compile an email list of all the past volunteers for the mission and got to see they amount of other people willing to help. A lot of the people who came to the mission for help today spoke Spanish and I got to watch one of my friends who had taken Spanish class interact with them and get to help a little girl find something that she wanted. My random story was when we were at mall later tonight and one of our groups saw some of the people who visited there in newer nicer clothes looking better and with lots of shopping bags it just shows that some people will take advantage of good programs just to get more. The fact that small of a church had the initiative to do something on such a scale gave me a real respect for them. They were very organized and seemed to be very efficient with very little waste compared to the other programs we visited it might have been because it was smaller but I believe that it also said something about the level of leadership that was present. They said that they provided food and clothing for a lot of people who were illegal immigrants and I found that interesting cause I always pictured that illegal immigrants to be something that happened mainly near the coasts and not a lot inland.
KaylaGreen
Kayla Green
Today we worked at the Nashville Rescue Mission and I had a good time. Unlike some of the volunteers who had to go down to the basement to organize and didn’t get much interactions with the participants I got to go up to a classroom and interact with the men of the Mission. I was in a math class room for men trying to build up their knowledge high enough to get their GEDs and I helped them work out problems that they had trouble with. The men in the class were very nice but took a few minutes to work up the courage to ask for help. My highlight was when this huge man who looked like he could break me was needing help and said when I went to sit down “you can move my puppy dog folder” it ticked me pink lol and kinda made me see him a different light. My down moment of the day was when I was put in the basement because classes were over and all I had to do was fold boxes up or blankets. My story of the day was when one of the guys from the class the same one as the puppy dog folder decided that when there was a break he was going to go out and smoke and tried to convince me that smoking was good for him and that it would turn his insides black to match his outside. Another story I’d like to share that made me sad was when a black man passed by us as we were on our way to the movie night at the center for human development and told us that we needed to “watch out for those monkeys that all black people were monkeys including him”, that kind of talk from anyone let alone about themselves is something that just kind of bothers me because it not only shows a general lack of respect for other but also for themselves. Another high part in my day and one that I was extremely grateful for was when one of the men in the class I was in stood up to pray and thanked me and the other person in the classroom for coming out to help them, and the fact that other people throughout the day took the time to genially thank us for coming out made me feel like I was really making a difference no matter how small.
Today we worked at the Nashville Rescue Mission and I had a good time. Unlike some of the volunteers who had to go down to the basement to organize and didn’t get much interactions with the participants I got to go up to a classroom and interact with the men of the Mission. I was in a math class room for men trying to build up their knowledge high enough to get their GEDs and I helped them work out problems that they had trouble with. The men in the class were very nice but took a few minutes to work up the courage to ask for help. My highlight was when this huge man who looked like he could break me was needing help and said when I went to sit down “you can move my puppy dog folder” it ticked me pink lol and kinda made me see him a different light. My down moment of the day was when I was put in the basement because classes were over and all I had to do was fold boxes up or blankets. My story of the day was when one of the guys from the class the same one as the puppy dog folder decided that when there was a break he was going to go out and smoke and tried to convince me that smoking was good for him and that it would turn his insides black to match his outside. Another story I’d like to share that made me sad was when a black man passed by us as we were on our way to the movie night at the center for human development and told us that we needed to “watch out for those monkeys that all black people were monkeys including him”, that kind of talk from anyone let alone about themselves is something that just kind of bothers me because it not only shows a general lack of respect for other but also for themselves. Another high part in my day and one that I was extremely grateful for was when one of the men in the class I was in stood up to pray and thanked me and the other person in the classroom for coming out to help them, and the fact that other people throughout the day took the time to genially thank us for coming out made me feel like I was really making a difference no matter how small.
JonathanWilliams
Jonathan Williams
Reflection for Nashville ASB
March 10 2009
Our group arrived at the Campus for human development 8:00 am .Wendy the director for the participants took the group on a tour of the campus. On the floor there is a day room were the homeless meet from 6:30 to 7:30 for showers. The showers take in about 100 people every morning Monday thru Friday. There is also a mailroom were the participants of the pre-odyssey program can receive mail from family members and employers. The program is for participants to learn to find a job and to develop the skills to be successful in everyday life. There are G.E.D classes to give the people the ability to fill-out job applications. In the odyssey program there are about 75 participants living on campus some are required to get a full-time job and stay clean from addiction for seven months. The campus offers a safe house for intoxicated homeless arrested instead of the officers taken them to jail. Chapel offered m to allow god into their hearts and live in a more positive state.” Through the power of spirituality and the practice of love ,the Campus for Human Development provides hospitality with respect that offers hope in a community of non-violence.” This quote is the campus’ mission statement they believe the seven core values Spirituality, Love, Hospitality, Respect, Hope and a community of non-violence the goals can and will be met. The work started after the tour our group painted bathrooms, shelves for storage and cleared brush from a fence line.
Reflection for Nashville ASB
March 10 2009
Our group arrived at the Campus for human development 8:00 am .Wendy the director for the participants took the group on a tour of the campus. On the floor there is a day room were the homeless meet from 6:30 to 7:30 for showers. The showers take in about 100 people every morning Monday thru Friday. There is also a mailroom were the participants of the pre-odyssey program can receive mail from family members and employers. The program is for participants to learn to find a job and to develop the skills to be successful in everyday life. There are G.E.D classes to give the people the ability to fill-out job applications. In the odyssey program there are about 75 participants living on campus some are required to get a full-time job and stay clean from addiction for seven months. The campus offers a safe house for intoxicated homeless arrested instead of the officers taken them to jail. Chapel offered m to allow god into their hearts and live in a more positive state.” Through the power of spirituality and the practice of love ,the Campus for Human Development provides hospitality with respect that offers hope in a community of non-violence.” This quote is the campus’ mission statement they believe the seven core values Spirituality, Love, Hospitality, Respect, Hope and a community of non-violence the goals can and will be met. The work started after the tour our group painted bathrooms, shelves for storage and cleared brush from a fence line.
AnneEndres
Anne Endres
Dr. Sally Campbell
PSY 350
7 March 2009
Alternative Spring Break
I have volunteered at different agencies aimed at helping the less fortunate around my hometown of Charleston, West Virginia, but none of my prior experiences compared to that which I experienced today. We arrived at the Campus for Human Development in Nashville, Tennessee, around 7:30AM and began working shortly after Wendy, one of the directors, gave us a tour of the facility. Wow, was it a large facility! During our tour I learned that there are numerous programs designed to help people on several levels. These people, more specifically, participants, are encouraged to participate in classes such as writing, literature, art, spirituality, and drugs and alcohol awareness that are scheduled throughout the weekdays. Additionally, the participants are awarded points based on different aspects. The encouragement of the people to participate was evident today, although there were no scheduled classes since it is the weekend. I was amazed at the art displayed throughout the campus – each work of art has been accomplished by the participants! It was nice to see how the participants are applying their newly learned skills.
Today I learned a few things. First, I learned that many of the participants at this agency are men, and many of whom suffer chronic homelessness. Second, I learned the true definition of chronic homelessness – it is defined by having been homeless for at least one year, or by having been homeless at least three times in the past four years. Third, I learned that my perception of homeless people caused me to be almost fearful of working with them – when our van pulled up through the alley and entered the parking lot of the campus, we were almost all kind of frantic and worried what we should do with our (valuable) belongings. However, after meeting some people at the campus and learning more about things going on, my stereotypical fears disappeared and I began to realize how much of an eye-opening experience this week would be.
I wasn’t sure what to expect food-wise, either. We went to the Nashville Rescue Mission for lunch, and it was really crowded with participants. Sill being a bit fearful of what was on my plate, I just sampled a little bit of everything. I felt bad doing this, but at the same time I was prepared; I stashed a few granola bars in my pockets. I also felt bad for wasting this food, but maybe tomorrow will bring different food. Overall, I am happy to be here and eager to help many homeless people in Nashville.
Dr. Sally Campbell
PSY 350
7 March 2009
Alternative Spring Break
I have volunteered at different agencies aimed at helping the less fortunate around my hometown of Charleston, West Virginia, but none of my prior experiences compared to that which I experienced today. We arrived at the Campus for Human Development in Nashville, Tennessee, around 7:30AM and began working shortly after Wendy, one of the directors, gave us a tour of the facility. Wow, was it a large facility! During our tour I learned that there are numerous programs designed to help people on several levels. These people, more specifically, participants, are encouraged to participate in classes such as writing, literature, art, spirituality, and drugs and alcohol awareness that are scheduled throughout the weekdays. Additionally, the participants are awarded points based on different aspects. The encouragement of the people to participate was evident today, although there were no scheduled classes since it is the weekend. I was amazed at the art displayed throughout the campus – each work of art has been accomplished by the participants! It was nice to see how the participants are applying their newly learned skills.
Today I learned a few things. First, I learned that many of the participants at this agency are men, and many of whom suffer chronic homelessness. Second, I learned the true definition of chronic homelessness – it is defined by having been homeless for at least one year, or by having been homeless at least three times in the past four years. Third, I learned that my perception of homeless people caused me to be almost fearful of working with them – when our van pulled up through the alley and entered the parking lot of the campus, we were almost all kind of frantic and worried what we should do with our (valuable) belongings. However, after meeting some people at the campus and learning more about things going on, my stereotypical fears disappeared and I began to realize how much of an eye-opening experience this week would be.
I wasn’t sure what to expect food-wise, either. We went to the Nashville Rescue Mission for lunch, and it was really crowded with participants. Sill being a bit fearful of what was on my plate, I just sampled a little bit of everything. I felt bad doing this, but at the same time I was prepared; I stashed a few granola bars in my pockets. I also felt bad for wasting this food, but maybe tomorrow will bring different food. Overall, I am happy to be here and eager to help many homeless people in Nashville.
AnneEndres
Anne Endres
Wednesday March 11, 2009
Today we worked at the Nashville Rescue Mission – for my group this was our second day here, and for the other group it was their third day. I am happy to be in the group that travels to other places more frequently. In addition to helping at the Nashville Rescue Mission, we have volunteered at The Campus for Human Development and the Music City Mission. It seems like the other CU group is almost stationed at the Nashville Rescue Mission. I enjoy helping at all three places, but my time spent at the Music City Mission was one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. I think it helped because I was able to interact with the Spanish mothers and children. This morning at the NRM I was able to interact with the male participants who are studying to take the GED exam. I helped teach English, and we more or less focused on the reading comprehension branch of English. I was assigned to help one male student who seemed to be not much older than me; he may be in his early twenties. We read passages and then answered questions about each passage. It was sad to realize the level of the passages we read were pretty simple, and that a man this age was struggling to read such passages. However, it was rewarding to be able to help him gain a better understanding of certain words and phrases throughout the passages. At times we took breathers from reading and I tried to teach him some grammar skills. I focused on trying to deter him from saying ‘ain’t’ and tried to do so in a friendly manner. Also, I asked him if he knew any Spanish words and I taught him some basic Spanish language and grammar. I think he enjoyed taking these few small breaks from reading to do some learning in other areas of grammar and language.
It was almost difficult to parallel the lives of two people around the same age. My student told me that he is going through the GED program for the second time, but I did not ask for any details. I don’t really know how to describe it, but I have been blessed with so many things that I sometimes take for granted, such as a proper education. It struck me this morning how valuable a K-12 education is, and I can almost assume that the student I helped today did not receive such. I really hope he gets back on track and obtains his GED, because I’m sure job opportunities will arise and he will really be able to turn his life around.
This morning it displeased me when the students I helped teach took a fifteen minute smoke break. I know smoking habits are probably hard to break because of the attached addiction, but they should still try to wean themselves away from smoking. It makes me wonder if the NRM has any classes on smoking awareness and the effects of drugs and alcohol. I remember Wendy, one of the directors at the Campus for Human Development, telling us about the variety of classes for the participants, such as drug prevention.
In addition to being able to teach, it was rewarding to be fed a feast this afternoon at NRM. Billy, one of the men who successfully completed the turnaround program, showed his true appreciation for the CU volunteers. In a way I felt bad for being able to eat this delicious and extremely well-prepared food while the homeless men were eating fractions of this food downstairs.
Wednesday March 11, 2009
Today we worked at the Nashville Rescue Mission – for my group this was our second day here, and for the other group it was their third day. I am happy to be in the group that travels to other places more frequently. In addition to helping at the Nashville Rescue Mission, we have volunteered at The Campus for Human Development and the Music City Mission. It seems like the other CU group is almost stationed at the Nashville Rescue Mission. I enjoy helping at all three places, but my time spent at the Music City Mission was one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. I think it helped because I was able to interact with the Spanish mothers and children. This morning at the NRM I was able to interact with the male participants who are studying to take the GED exam. I helped teach English, and we more or less focused on the reading comprehension branch of English. I was assigned to help one male student who seemed to be not much older than me; he may be in his early twenties. We read passages and then answered questions about each passage. It was sad to realize the level of the passages we read were pretty simple, and that a man this age was struggling to read such passages. However, it was rewarding to be able to help him gain a better understanding of certain words and phrases throughout the passages. At times we took breathers from reading and I tried to teach him some grammar skills. I focused on trying to deter him from saying ‘ain’t’ and tried to do so in a friendly manner. Also, I asked him if he knew any Spanish words and I taught him some basic Spanish language and grammar. I think he enjoyed taking these few small breaks from reading to do some learning in other areas of grammar and language.
It was almost difficult to parallel the lives of two people around the same age. My student told me that he is going through the GED program for the second time, but I did not ask for any details. I don’t really know how to describe it, but I have been blessed with so many things that I sometimes take for granted, such as a proper education. It struck me this morning how valuable a K-12 education is, and I can almost assume that the student I helped today did not receive such. I really hope he gets back on track and obtains his GED, because I’m sure job opportunities will arise and he will really be able to turn his life around.
This morning it displeased me when the students I helped teach took a fifteen minute smoke break. I know smoking habits are probably hard to break because of the attached addiction, but they should still try to wean themselves away from smoking. It makes me wonder if the NRM has any classes on smoking awareness and the effects of drugs and alcohol. I remember Wendy, one of the directors at the Campus for Human Development, telling us about the variety of classes for the participants, such as drug prevention.
In addition to being able to teach, it was rewarding to be fed a feast this afternoon at NRM. Billy, one of the men who successfully completed the turnaround program, showed his true appreciation for the CU volunteers. In a way I felt bad for being able to eat this delicious and extremely well-prepared food while the homeless men were eating fractions of this food downstairs.
AnneEndres
Anne Endres
Tuesday 3/10/09
Today we spent the day at Music City Mission in Nashville. So far, today has been my favorite work day, and there are a few reasons why. Music City Mission is located in the Spanish district of Nashville, or at least it seems to be. When we drove to and from lunch (we got to go to CiCi’s Pizza!) we passed many buildings with Spanish titles – these included restaurants, Laundromats, and clothing shops. The Mission is right next door to a Nazarene church, where a retired pastor ministered; his son now ministers. They opened up this shelter next door in a building that used to be a church. This facility is the cleanest and best kept one that we have volunteered in all week. I think the cleaner environment created a more positive atmosphere for many people in the group, myself included. I spent the morning in an upstairs room with Ginny folding and sorting sheets, pillows, pillowcases, etc. Many of the sheets were in good condition and we threw out any that were not in acceptable condition and that were stained. After we finished upstairs, we shifted downstairs and helped various people with their duties. Little did I know that one of the most rewarding moments of my life was soon to take place.
Upon greeting a few of the women and children who came to the shelter in need of food or clothing, I immediately noticed how much Spanish was being spoken, and this observation tickled me pink. I began speaking to the mothers in Spanish, and then with their permission started talking to the small children in their native language. Soon after playing with and speaking to two small girls, one of the mothers asked me if I could help her. She led me over to a table where one of the Caucasian gentlemen who were in charge of the facility was stationed. He spoke no Spanish, and the Spanish woman understood little English. The problem at hand was that one of the Spanish women’s friends, who stood almost hesitantly behind her, wanted some diapers for her baby boy. It was confusing because the more outgoing Spanish woman kept saying “Numero uno, numero uno!” and the man in charge falsely understood that they wanted one diaper. Instead, the woman was requesting size one diapers for her shyer friend’s son. The man kept asking in English things like, “Where’s the boy? How old is he? Do you have any other children?” My Spanish knowledge helped me facilitate this transaction by interpreting and translating from English to Spanish and vice versa. This was the first of several translating encounters that took place today.
After the diaper situation was figured out, I explored the facility and discovered two more Spanish mothers and their children browsing through the clothing sections. This was where another rewarding experience would take place. One mother acknowledged me and we began chatting in Spanish. After realizing I spoke fairly fluently, she introduced me to her two-year-old daughter, Adellin (Spanish version of Adeline). Adellin and I began interacting and picking out what clothes and accessories she liked. Her mother realized what we were doing and asked if I could help them find a pair of shoes for her daughter, since tomorrow is her third birthday. I gladly accepted the invitation to help these people and apply my Spanish-speaking skills and began sorting through shoes. Grace noticed what I was doing and began looking for ‘Talla siete,’ or size seven. We found a pair of bright red rain boots with ladybug faces. Boy, was Adellin impressed! I helped her take her sandals off and put these boots on, all the while trying to talk to her in Spanish. Her mother was ever so pleased that we had found these ‘botas’ in the correct ‘talla’ and graciously thanked us. She and he friend then asked me details about the volunteer group such as where we are from, if many others speak Spanish, and if we were paid for our work. I later found out that she was born in Mexico, and the first woman was from El Salvador. I told both of them my plans to study abroad in the future.
It was so rewarding that I could help these women and children obtain necessities like diapers and the birthday present for Adellin. I do not know any details of how these families are doing financially, but the fact that they came here to this church to get these things shows that they may be suffering in some way. Nevertheless, the look on Adellin’s face when she saw the boots and realized that they fit was priceless, and I really appreciated being a part of this success. Today I enjoyed applying my Spanish skills in order to help the less fortunate obtain things that sometimes I take for granted.
Today was great; I’m sure I’ve already made that clear. The best part of the day was being able to help the Spanish mothers and their children. Another nice thing about today was that we were treated to lunch at CiCi’s Pizza.
The majority of the day went extremely well and parts were really rewarding. I think many of the other CU volunteers felt the same way. However, throughout the day I noticed that some students were sitting, texting, and not really contributing to the group work effort. It was frustrating to know that while many students were putting in effort to help the less fortunate and took a reasonable amount of breaks, others joked around and took lots of breaks. The past few days I’ve kept these thoughts to myself, but they’re beginning to build up. Tomorrow’s our last day at work, and we’re returning to the Nashville Rescue Mission.
Tuesday 3/10/09
Today we spent the day at Music City Mission in Nashville. So far, today has been my favorite work day, and there are a few reasons why. Music City Mission is located in the Spanish district of Nashville, or at least it seems to be. When we drove to and from lunch (we got to go to CiCi’s Pizza!) we passed many buildings with Spanish titles – these included restaurants, Laundromats, and clothing shops. The Mission is right next door to a Nazarene church, where a retired pastor ministered; his son now ministers. They opened up this shelter next door in a building that used to be a church. This facility is the cleanest and best kept one that we have volunteered in all week. I think the cleaner environment created a more positive atmosphere for many people in the group, myself included. I spent the morning in an upstairs room with Ginny folding and sorting sheets, pillows, pillowcases, etc. Many of the sheets were in good condition and we threw out any that were not in acceptable condition and that were stained. After we finished upstairs, we shifted downstairs and helped various people with their duties. Little did I know that one of the most rewarding moments of my life was soon to take place.
Upon greeting a few of the women and children who came to the shelter in need of food or clothing, I immediately noticed how much Spanish was being spoken, and this observation tickled me pink. I began speaking to the mothers in Spanish, and then with their permission started talking to the small children in their native language. Soon after playing with and speaking to two small girls, one of the mothers asked me if I could help her. She led me over to a table where one of the Caucasian gentlemen who were in charge of the facility was stationed. He spoke no Spanish, and the Spanish woman understood little English. The problem at hand was that one of the Spanish women’s friends, who stood almost hesitantly behind her, wanted some diapers for her baby boy. It was confusing because the more outgoing Spanish woman kept saying “Numero uno, numero uno!” and the man in charge falsely understood that they wanted one diaper. Instead, the woman was requesting size one diapers for her shyer friend’s son. The man kept asking in English things like, “Where’s the boy? How old is he? Do you have any other children?” My Spanish knowledge helped me facilitate this transaction by interpreting and translating from English to Spanish and vice versa. This was the first of several translating encounters that took place today.
After the diaper situation was figured out, I explored the facility and discovered two more Spanish mothers and their children browsing through the clothing sections. This was where another rewarding experience would take place. One mother acknowledged me and we began chatting in Spanish. After realizing I spoke fairly fluently, she introduced me to her two-year-old daughter, Adellin (Spanish version of Adeline). Adellin and I began interacting and picking out what clothes and accessories she liked. Her mother realized what we were doing and asked if I could help them find a pair of shoes for her daughter, since tomorrow is her third birthday. I gladly accepted the invitation to help these people and apply my Spanish-speaking skills and began sorting through shoes. Grace noticed what I was doing and began looking for ‘Talla siete,’ or size seven. We found a pair of bright red rain boots with ladybug faces. Boy, was Adellin impressed! I helped her take her sandals off and put these boots on, all the while trying to talk to her in Spanish. Her mother was ever so pleased that we had found these ‘botas’ in the correct ‘talla’ and graciously thanked us. She and he friend then asked me details about the volunteer group such as where we are from, if many others speak Spanish, and if we were paid for our work. I later found out that she was born in Mexico, and the first woman was from El Salvador. I told both of them my plans to study abroad in the future.
It was so rewarding that I could help these women and children obtain necessities like diapers and the birthday present for Adellin. I do not know any details of how these families are doing financially, but the fact that they came here to this church to get these things shows that they may be suffering in some way. Nevertheless, the look on Adellin’s face when she saw the boots and realized that they fit was priceless, and I really appreciated being a part of this success. Today I enjoyed applying my Spanish skills in order to help the less fortunate obtain things that sometimes I take for granted.
Today was great; I’m sure I’ve already made that clear. The best part of the day was being able to help the Spanish mothers and their children. Another nice thing about today was that we were treated to lunch at CiCi’s Pizza.
The majority of the day went extremely well and parts were really rewarding. I think many of the other CU volunteers felt the same way. However, throughout the day I noticed that some students were sitting, texting, and not really contributing to the group work effort. It was frustrating to know that while many students were putting in effort to help the less fortunate and took a reasonable amount of breaks, others joked around and took lots of breaks. The past few days I’ve kept these thoughts to myself, but they’re beginning to build up. Tomorrow’s our last day at work, and we’re returning to the Nashville Rescue Mission.
Friday, March 13, 2009
StephenReed
Today was the last day of our volunteer service. We went to Nashville Rescue Mission again which has been my favorite place to help out. The group that I was in went down to the Basement where they store most of there donations that they receive that has to be sorted before they can give them out. We sorted and sorted rest of the stuff that we had worked on for the 3 days that we had been there earlier in the week. After lunch we met up with Brother Thomas again who is always a happy go lucky kind of guy. He sent us out on more work which is what we were sent here to do. Im so glad we were of service to these nice mean though im sure that lots of the girls in our group would like to have worked in the womens center. We worked on folding sheets trying to fix the miss communitcation we had earlier in the week. With so many things going on at the same time from time to time people make mistakes but you can’t get upset when it happens for if you do you won’t get anything done. I must say this trip has been good on most of the people though there were some that don’t seem to have come on the trip for the right reasons but I suppose you will always have a few of them on a trip. At the end of our evening with NRM they did something special for us which blessed us all. Im sure most of us didn’t do this type of work for thank you’s or for pats on the back but when they do happen its nice to get them.. They fixed us a nice dinner with lots of food from shrimp to chicken. We all enjoyed it and filled our stomachs up though a few of us felt bad cause we were getting some really nice food and the people that don’t get lots of food weren’t getting that type of food. Oh and by the way in my first paper I wrote that I met a guy named Pittman well we found out it was his birthday and wished him a happy birthday he just turned 37. He told us that we blessed his heart and hopes that we come back. I do hope I get to come back and help out for if you give your time you will fill good about yourself and make peoples lives better. Im so glad I came and I thank all who made this trip possible. Thank you all!!!!
NicoleDuvall
Tuesday, March 9, 2009
Today we got to sleep in a little longer and then it was off to the Campus for Human Development, which isn’t too far from the Nashville Rescue Mission. Luckily, the weather was nice today- no too hot, not too cold. When we got there we met, Ms. Wendy, who is, I guess the director of the Campus. She seemed very friendly and eager to have us help work around the campus. First, she gave us a tour around the building, which looked a little rough on the outside but was actually pretty nice on the inside. It seemed to be a happier place to me than the Rescue Mission, which, don’t get me wrong, is a really nice place, but Campus seemed to have more life to it and activities for its participants. Ms. Wendy said that everyone that walks through the front doors has to have respect for everyone otherwise, there will be problems. Later on in the day when we were working outside, we saw a little quarrel break out between two male participants- I don’t know what was going on-just saw one spit on the other and then Ms. Wendy went over to investigate and they immediately backed off. It seems to me that she has a very good influence over the participants of the campus and that they look up to her-like a mentor.
My job for the day was to help clear out a building that had survived a fire but it’s contents were pretty messed up. I had to throw away a lot of canned foods that were old and in the fire about a year ago. I also cleaned up some scrap that was laying around. When I took the canned garbage over to the dumpster, a gentlemen asked me why I was throwing it away; that we should donate it to a food bank or something. I told him that I was told to throw it away; that the food was not good for anyone to eat. Later on when I came back, I saw him digging through the dumpster, picking various canned items out. I guess he was desperate, but I hope that he doesn’t get sick-I did tell Ms. Wendy about it. She said that was normal behavior of his.
Later on after lunch I went outside again to help clean out the shed and clean up dirty laundry baskets and after that I went inside to help paint cubby holes different colors for the participants to put their belongings in. it was definitely harder than I thought it was going to be. I learned that I am a terrible painter. I noticed that Campus didn’t have security outside at all but inside, it seemed like their was a gazillon doors and they all were locked-as safety measures-which made me feel kinda weird, like a was trapped and had no way out. Later I realized it was for everyone’s own safety, because you just don’t know what someone is capable of doing to hurt someone else, even though Campus is a very peaceful-non violent facility. I also learned that both these programs help people out in different ways but I’ m glad that Nashville has both The Mission and The Campus to help the homeless find a way to get back on their feet and into a normal life.
Today we got to sleep in a little longer and then it was off to the Campus for Human Development, which isn’t too far from the Nashville Rescue Mission. Luckily, the weather was nice today- no too hot, not too cold. When we got there we met, Ms. Wendy, who is, I guess the director of the Campus. She seemed very friendly and eager to have us help work around the campus. First, she gave us a tour around the building, which looked a little rough on the outside but was actually pretty nice on the inside. It seemed to be a happier place to me than the Rescue Mission, which, don’t get me wrong, is a really nice place, but Campus seemed to have more life to it and activities for its participants. Ms. Wendy said that everyone that walks through the front doors has to have respect for everyone otherwise, there will be problems. Later on in the day when we were working outside, we saw a little quarrel break out between two male participants- I don’t know what was going on-just saw one spit on the other and then Ms. Wendy went over to investigate and they immediately backed off. It seems to me that she has a very good influence over the participants of the campus and that they look up to her-like a mentor.
My job for the day was to help clear out a building that had survived a fire but it’s contents were pretty messed up. I had to throw away a lot of canned foods that were old and in the fire about a year ago. I also cleaned up some scrap that was laying around. When I took the canned garbage over to the dumpster, a gentlemen asked me why I was throwing it away; that we should donate it to a food bank or something. I told him that I was told to throw it away; that the food was not good for anyone to eat. Later on when I came back, I saw him digging through the dumpster, picking various canned items out. I guess he was desperate, but I hope that he doesn’t get sick-I did tell Ms. Wendy about it. She said that was normal behavior of his.
Later on after lunch I went outside again to help clean out the shed and clean up dirty laundry baskets and after that I went inside to help paint cubby holes different colors for the participants to put their belongings in. it was definitely harder than I thought it was going to be. I learned that I am a terrible painter. I noticed that Campus didn’t have security outside at all but inside, it seemed like their was a gazillon doors and they all were locked-as safety measures-which made me feel kinda weird, like a was trapped and had no way out. Later I realized it was for everyone’s own safety, because you just don’t know what someone is capable of doing to hurt someone else, even though Campus is a very peaceful-non violent facility. I also learned that both these programs help people out in different ways but I’ m glad that Nashville has both The Mission and The Campus to help the homeless find a way to get back on their feet and into a normal life.
StephenReed
So today we were at the Campus for Human Development. It was a little different from the other shelter we have been to. We first met Wendy the director of the Campus; she took us on a tour of the grounds. She showed us all that the Campus has to offer, from classes to living areas. Once we finished with the tour we went off into different groups to help out around the Campus from improving the outside to finishing some of the projects she had the other group start. In our group we worked on painting the bathrooms that so desperately needed some touch ups. While we worked there were all kinds of people coming in and out of the Campus. While we were working on the bathrooms we kind of took up some space in the hallway when an older gentlemen came down the hallway with a guide helping him navigate the mess we had made. The man that was his guide told us that he couldn’t see well so we cleared the way so he wouldn’t trip so he could get into the laundry room they have for them there. We went back to working and had some stuff strung out in the hallway yet again so when he came out of the laundry room I stopped what I was doing so I could guide him through. He was a nice guy and thanked us for all the work we were doing. Then again a few of the gentlemen there thanked us for our time. I don’t think I have done that much work but I still have gotten a lot of thank you’s. I guess though it is a lot of work considering that they don’t have a lot of people that do work around the shelter without them having to pay them. I think people should give more of their time I mean if a person gave an hour of their time from time to time it would make the world a better place. Which is why I think people like us are here. We give up our time to show other people that there are kinds of people out there so perhaps they will do something nice for there community when people from another state come and give of theie time making there place a better place.
NicoleDuvall
Today we started early and we went back over to the Nashville Mission to volunteer our services. I was real excited today because we were able to choose where we wanted to work-basement, kitchen, folding clothes, etc. I chose to work in the kitchen because I really wanted to help serve and I figured that would be a good opportunity to talk one on one with the mission’s program participants. I didn’t get a chance to work on the serving line but I did get to help get desserts ready and chop up some ham. It was fun, but still kind of tiring but I was definitely more exhausted yesterday working in the basement.
While I was picking up trays in the dining area, a gentlemen by the name of Mike, asked me if I would mind getting him a cup of ice and I told him that sure, I didn’t mind and then he asked for some water. He seemed really friendly and was asking me what brought me to TN. I told him that we were a group of college students, my major, and a few other facts about me. Then, what I found really interesting was that when I got ready to leave, he said “Pleas don’t leave me,” and I just immediately sat back down. Sitting across from us was a middle aged guy who was just talking nonstop… to himself… Mike said that he does that just to get attention and that I shouldn’t feel uncomfortable, because I guess it was obvious that I looked a little uncomfortable. Then he told me a little bit about his life, that he had a son that he hadn’t seen in a while and that he has been in the program for a couple months trying to get his life back on track. He also said that the Mission has really helped him come through a lot of hard times.
I also talked to another guy named Willie also. He told us that he had a son and a daughter back in Alabama and that he missed them greatly but doesn’t want to go back until he gets his life turned back around- he had a drug problem evidently- I didn’t want to ask too much. He seemed to know a lot of people for having had been there since December 2008. I almost cried when he was telling us that he had lost his wife, mother, and father last year and it just sent him into a downward spiral. I really almost cried-it was very depressing-I get so emotional. That is one thing that I ‘m really worried about-is just breaking down and bawling-so far, I’ve been able to control myself.
Later on I went back downstairs and sorted through shampoo and different hygiene products. There is endless stuff to sort through downstairs and we certainly made a dent, but most of the day I spent upstairs.
In the evening we went over to the Campus for Human Development-which was the first time for me- for game/movie/pizza night. I played a Pictionary sort of game while others watched Stomp the Yard. The campus definitely was definitely not as nice as the mission-building wise. We really didn’t get to interact with some of the people but Ms. Wendy seemed pretty nice. I’m a little nervous about tomorrow thought, because I hear she is a little rough and demanding. Hopefully tomorrow will be fun and we will get to meet some really cool people.
While I was picking up trays in the dining area, a gentlemen by the name of Mike, asked me if I would mind getting him a cup of ice and I told him that sure, I didn’t mind and then he asked for some water. He seemed really friendly and was asking me what brought me to TN. I told him that we were a group of college students, my major, and a few other facts about me. Then, what I found really interesting was that when I got ready to leave, he said “Pleas don’t leave me,” and I just immediately sat back down. Sitting across from us was a middle aged guy who was just talking nonstop… to himself… Mike said that he does that just to get attention and that I shouldn’t feel uncomfortable, because I guess it was obvious that I looked a little uncomfortable. Then he told me a little bit about his life, that he had a son that he hadn’t seen in a while and that he has been in the program for a couple months trying to get his life back on track. He also said that the Mission has really helped him come through a lot of hard times.
I also talked to another guy named Willie also. He told us that he had a son and a daughter back in Alabama and that he missed them greatly but doesn’t want to go back until he gets his life turned back around- he had a drug problem evidently- I didn’t want to ask too much. He seemed to know a lot of people for having had been there since December 2008. I almost cried when he was telling us that he had lost his wife, mother, and father last year and it just sent him into a downward spiral. I really almost cried-it was very depressing-I get so emotional. That is one thing that I ‘m really worried about-is just breaking down and bawling-so far, I’ve been able to control myself.
Later on I went back downstairs and sorted through shampoo and different hygiene products. There is endless stuff to sort through downstairs and we certainly made a dent, but most of the day I spent upstairs.
In the evening we went over to the Campus for Human Development-which was the first time for me- for game/movie/pizza night. I played a Pictionary sort of game while others watched Stomp the Yard. The campus definitely was definitely not as nice as the mission-building wise. We really didn’t get to interact with some of the people but Ms. Wendy seemed pretty nice. I’m a little nervous about tomorrow thought, because I hear she is a little rough and demanding. Hopefully tomorrow will be fun and we will get to meet some really cool people.
TiffanyMcMahan
Tiffany McMahan
March 09, 2009
Today at the Nashville Mission we took a tour of the building. The dorms were very interesting because there were so many beds that were very close together. We were told that on an average night that almost all the beds if not all beds were full. We also got to help in the kitchen by doing the desserts and meats for the dinner. We got to see how much they cook for lunch and dinner. We also helped in the dinning hall with the homeless and the halfway residents. We had interaction with the homeless and halfway residents by helping take up their trays. We met a guy named Willie that had been there for 6 to 7 months after leaving Alabama (leaving behind his entire family) to kick a drug addiction. He told us how at one point he took so many drugs that he prayed to never wake up; then he went on to explain how the mission changed his life and that he had been passing all of the drug tests. This actually gave us insight into how they feel about the mission and how much appreciation they have for the mission. He expressed how thankful he was that we came to help during our spring break. Many of the residents were very appreciative of us giving up our spring break for volunteering.
Later tonight, we visited the Campus Center and got to watch a movie and play games. We got to see how different it was from the Mission and we also got to have interaction with our entire group. I think this was a good idea because we learned more about each other as a group, and it gave us time to get to know each other. This is important because the more we know about each other the better we will work together as a group; therefore, we will make more progress.
March 09, 2009
Today at the Nashville Mission we took a tour of the building. The dorms were very interesting because there were so many beds that were very close together. We were told that on an average night that almost all the beds if not all beds were full. We also got to help in the kitchen by doing the desserts and meats for the dinner. We got to see how much they cook for lunch and dinner. We also helped in the dinning hall with the homeless and the halfway residents. We had interaction with the homeless and halfway residents by helping take up their trays. We met a guy named Willie that had been there for 6 to 7 months after leaving Alabama (leaving behind his entire family) to kick a drug addiction. He told us how at one point he took so many drugs that he prayed to never wake up; then he went on to explain how the mission changed his life and that he had been passing all of the drug tests. This actually gave us insight into how they feel about the mission and how much appreciation they have for the mission. He expressed how thankful he was that we came to help during our spring break. Many of the residents were very appreciative of us giving up our spring break for volunteering.
Later tonight, we visited the Campus Center and got to watch a movie and play games. We got to see how different it was from the Mission and we also got to have interaction with our entire group. I think this was a good idea because we learned more about each other as a group, and it gave us time to get to know each other. This is important because the more we know about each other the better we will work together as a group; therefore, we will make more progress.
TiffanyMcMahan
Tiffany McMahan
March 11, 2009
Today was very sad because we all knew that it was our last day at the Mission. I worked down in the basement sorting items such as shampoo and conditioner. I also took many pictures of the staff and residents there, so that I would have some memory to take back with me. During lunch time there was another volunteer group there to help. After lunch some of the residents asked us if we would be coming back; since we wouldn’t be going back down to the dinning hall for dinner we all said our good byes and it was very sad for us.
I don’t think any of us expected what happened at the end of the day. We all were very tired from working and thought that we would just have our normal dinner in the dinning hall with the rest of the halfway residents. We did not expect the meal that they prepared for us. It was very well prepared and much appreciated. We all thanked them for the meal, and it made me very sad but yet happy at the same time. I knew that we made a huge impression at the Mission and our efforts really helped out, but it was also very sad because this was the end of our service.
When I got back to the room, it all kind of hit me; I became very sad because I got thinking that not many people especially students would give up their spring breaks to volunteer at homeless shelters. This trip really showed me how the homeless lives and what their lives are like. I never thought about many of the things that I seen on this trip. I think that this opened all of our eyes and taught us a lesson that none of us will forget. I would love to be able to do this type of service more often. Since we are all college students, I feel that this trip was a good experience for us because some of us if not all have never had to deal with such things and live in the conditions that they live in. I think the Mission, the Campus, and the homeless that were involved with our service volunteering really appreciated it.. We may not be able to see the impact we made, but I know that just the small things that we did made a huge impact of them. If only everyone took the time to do a small part in helping someone else then everyone in America would have a safe place to stay and a warm meal to eat.
March 11, 2009
Today was very sad because we all knew that it was our last day at the Mission. I worked down in the basement sorting items such as shampoo and conditioner. I also took many pictures of the staff and residents there, so that I would have some memory to take back with me. During lunch time there was another volunteer group there to help. After lunch some of the residents asked us if we would be coming back; since we wouldn’t be going back down to the dinning hall for dinner we all said our good byes and it was very sad for us.
I don’t think any of us expected what happened at the end of the day. We all were very tired from working and thought that we would just have our normal dinner in the dinning hall with the rest of the halfway residents. We did not expect the meal that they prepared for us. It was very well prepared and much appreciated. We all thanked them for the meal, and it made me very sad but yet happy at the same time. I knew that we made a huge impression at the Mission and our efforts really helped out, but it was also very sad because this was the end of our service.
When I got back to the room, it all kind of hit me; I became very sad because I got thinking that not many people especially students would give up their spring breaks to volunteer at homeless shelters. This trip really showed me how the homeless lives and what their lives are like. I never thought about many of the things that I seen on this trip. I think that this opened all of our eyes and taught us a lesson that none of us will forget. I would love to be able to do this type of service more often. Since we are all college students, I feel that this trip was a good experience for us because some of us if not all have never had to deal with such things and live in the conditions that they live in. I think the Mission, the Campus, and the homeless that were involved with our service volunteering really appreciated it.. We may not be able to see the impact we made, but I know that just the small things that we did made a huge impact of them. If only everyone took the time to do a small part in helping someone else then everyone in America would have a safe place to stay and a warm meal to eat.
NicoleDuvall
Today was our last day at the Nashville Rescue Mission and it was kinda sad. The people there were really nice and so appreciated all of our efforts and help. When we got there, a bunch of us went straight down to the basement again to sort canned food items and crushed boxes for a couple of hours.
During lunch we said “bye” to Pittman and wished him happy birthday –Willie told us because we asked where he was because we wanted to say goodbye. Stephen and I really liked him-he was really genuine and friendly. I hope things go well for him.
Later on, we moved over towards the shampoo, lotions , & toothpastes, (toiletries) etc. into boxes for the Mission to distribute to the participants. It seemed like a never-ending process, but we did make the area a lot neater and got rid of a lot of unnecessary stuff. There is still a lot of work to be done, but I am very proud of all the hard work we did. We definitely made a difference. It was fun too, working with everyone helped the time pass by faster.
Before we left, the people at the Mission decided to do something special for us- they served us a really nice dinner in a special conference like room. I don’t think any of us were expecting them to go to that extreme for us because we were there to help, not to earn food. I mean there are other people there who were more deserving of that food that we were. I was in Heaven-2 kinds of chicken! Can’t beat that! They even had dessert! I was really excited!
After that, we said our goodbyes and thank you’s and I’m pretty sure some people got a little teary eyed, since we did get pretty used to being there and they were very hospitable.
After we got back to the hotel, I took a nap and then it was off to the Bicentennial Park to at nighttime. It was a little dark, but still pretty and the Parthenon was gorgeous. After the park we went back Downtown and walked around the streets to do some sightseeing. It was really cold, but I’m glad I went because all the little shops are so neat. We even got serenaded by two gentlemen on the street playing the guitar. They were really talented. A few people gave them money and they were very appreciative, saying that it was going to go towards a hotel room, since the temperature was dropping.
I am definitely very thankful for the opportunity to come to Nashville to visit the Campus for Human Development and The Nashville Rescue Mission. I was glad to make a difference helping clean up as well as getting to meet new people and hear their stories. It really made me realize how lucky we all are and that when a group a people come together, a lot can be accomplished to help better others. I hope that the Bonner Program will be able to do this again next year. Even though I will have graduated, I think it was a very successful trip and that most people did enjoy making a difference. Thanks Jesse and Alex for making this trip possible, successful, and for keeping us safe! :)
During lunch we said “bye” to Pittman and wished him happy birthday –Willie told us because we asked where he was because we wanted to say goodbye. Stephen and I really liked him-he was really genuine and friendly. I hope things go well for him.
Later on, we moved over towards the shampoo, lotions , & toothpastes, (toiletries) etc. into boxes for the Mission to distribute to the participants. It seemed like a never-ending process, but we did make the area a lot neater and got rid of a lot of unnecessary stuff. There is still a lot of work to be done, but I am very proud of all the hard work we did. We definitely made a difference. It was fun too, working with everyone helped the time pass by faster.
Before we left, the people at the Mission decided to do something special for us- they served us a really nice dinner in a special conference like room. I don’t think any of us were expecting them to go to that extreme for us because we were there to help, not to earn food. I mean there are other people there who were more deserving of that food that we were. I was in Heaven-2 kinds of chicken! Can’t beat that! They even had dessert! I was really excited!
After that, we said our goodbyes and thank you’s and I’m pretty sure some people got a little teary eyed, since we did get pretty used to being there and they were very hospitable.
After we got back to the hotel, I took a nap and then it was off to the Bicentennial Park to at nighttime. It was a little dark, but still pretty and the Parthenon was gorgeous. After the park we went back Downtown and walked around the streets to do some sightseeing. It was really cold, but I’m glad I went because all the little shops are so neat. We even got serenaded by two gentlemen on the street playing the guitar. They were really talented. A few people gave them money and they were very appreciative, saying that it was going to go towards a hotel room, since the temperature was dropping.
I am definitely very thankful for the opportunity to come to Nashville to visit the Campus for Human Development and The Nashville Rescue Mission. I was glad to make a difference helping clean up as well as getting to meet new people and hear their stories. It really made me realize how lucky we all are and that when a group a people come together, a lot can be accomplished to help better others. I hope that the Bonner Program will be able to do this again next year. Even though I will have graduated, I think it was a very successful trip and that most people did enjoy making a difference. Thanks Jesse and Alex for making this trip possible, successful, and for keeping us safe! :)
TiffanyShaver
Tiffany Shaver
Dr. Campbell
3-11-09
Reflection Journal- Day Five
It is the last day we are working at the Nashville Rescue Mission and I have so many mixed emotions right now. I am sad that today is the last day because this has been one of the most rewarding weeks of my life yet I am happy because I know that I have made a difference this week. This week I have had the opportunity to work with two agencies, the Nashville Rescue Mission and the Campus for Human Development and I can honestly say that I am a different person.
This week has been such a humbling experience. I have always known that homelessness was a horrible problem, but I have never has the chance to see that firsthand; this week changed that. Like I said before, today was the last day working at the Mission and the whole day I had to keep myself from crying. I worked in the kitchen today and it was an absolute blast. I became very skilled at potato peeling and de-boning turkey. Working in the kitchen can be very tiresome, but you get the chance to interact with all of the staff and people in the program. It’s an amazing experience to serve them their food as well, because you can just see the happiness in their face as they walk by. Working in the kitchen is probably my favorite because you do have that interaction and you have the chance to see the homeless face to face and it makes you realize just how blessed you are. I have learned that lesson a lot this week.
After working in the kitchen all day, it was time for goodbyes, which was the hardest part. You can tell that they were so appreciative of having us there and I feel blessed to be there. The men that I came to know fairly well was Willie, James, Len, and Keith. We were able to get our pictures with them and their contact information which was really awesome. Willie is the man whose daughter has been missing since Friday, so we wanted to keep in touch with him to get updates on his situations. As he was talking about it, you could just see the pain in his eyes and how hard he was trying not to show it. I almost lost it then and there. Earlier, they prayed for us and was asking God to bless us and it blew my mind away. These people are in need of so much and yet they ask God to bless us. It blew my mind on how unselfish these men are and how I need to learn from them.
Later on in the day, Billy and some other men at the mission cooked us a fancy dinner. They had tables set up with centerpieces and amazing food. However, as I was walking through the line I noticed how familiar some of the food look. The sweet potatoes that we had peeled were cooked on the table. I had watched the desserts being placed on the crystal plate while I was in the kitchen and I remembered how Billy was telling the workers how the desserts needed to be placed so it would look good. It broke my heart to think how much effort they put into making us feel welcome. It also broke my heart to know what the Mission people were eating while we had a fancy dinner. I can honestly say that I will never look at anything the same again. Its been the most frustrating yet rewarding week of my life and I truly mean that. Life and the way I see it has changed and I know its for the better. I will miss the Mission and the Campus, but mostly the Mission because I came so close to that place and the people there. I have already cried once since coming back to the hotel because I didn’t want to leave. I will miss this place and the Mission, with the people there, has changed my life.
Dr. Campbell
3-11-09
Reflection Journal- Day Five
It is the last day we are working at the Nashville Rescue Mission and I have so many mixed emotions right now. I am sad that today is the last day because this has been one of the most rewarding weeks of my life yet I am happy because I know that I have made a difference this week. This week I have had the opportunity to work with two agencies, the Nashville Rescue Mission and the Campus for Human Development and I can honestly say that I am a different person.
This week has been such a humbling experience. I have always known that homelessness was a horrible problem, but I have never has the chance to see that firsthand; this week changed that. Like I said before, today was the last day working at the Mission and the whole day I had to keep myself from crying. I worked in the kitchen today and it was an absolute blast. I became very skilled at potato peeling and de-boning turkey. Working in the kitchen can be very tiresome, but you get the chance to interact with all of the staff and people in the program. It’s an amazing experience to serve them their food as well, because you can just see the happiness in their face as they walk by. Working in the kitchen is probably my favorite because you do have that interaction and you have the chance to see the homeless face to face and it makes you realize just how blessed you are. I have learned that lesson a lot this week.
After working in the kitchen all day, it was time for goodbyes, which was the hardest part. You can tell that they were so appreciative of having us there and I feel blessed to be there. The men that I came to know fairly well was Willie, James, Len, and Keith. We were able to get our pictures with them and their contact information which was really awesome. Willie is the man whose daughter has been missing since Friday, so we wanted to keep in touch with him to get updates on his situations. As he was talking about it, you could just see the pain in his eyes and how hard he was trying not to show it. I almost lost it then and there. Earlier, they prayed for us and was asking God to bless us and it blew my mind away. These people are in need of so much and yet they ask God to bless us. It blew my mind on how unselfish these men are and how I need to learn from them.
Later on in the day, Billy and some other men at the mission cooked us a fancy dinner. They had tables set up with centerpieces and amazing food. However, as I was walking through the line I noticed how familiar some of the food look. The sweet potatoes that we had peeled were cooked on the table. I had watched the desserts being placed on the crystal plate while I was in the kitchen and I remembered how Billy was telling the workers how the desserts needed to be placed so it would look good. It broke my heart to think how much effort they put into making us feel welcome. It also broke my heart to know what the Mission people were eating while we had a fancy dinner. I can honestly say that I will never look at anything the same again. Its been the most frustrating yet rewarding week of my life and I truly mean that. Life and the way I see it has changed and I know its for the better. I will miss the Mission and the Campus, but mostly the Mission because I came so close to that place and the people there. I have already cried once since coming back to the hotel because I didn’t want to leave. I will miss this place and the Mission, with the people there, has changed my life.
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