I was recently visited by a friend I went to school with. A year ago she did mission work in Mexico and two weeks ago she graduated from college, just a couple of days before flying into Phoenix. It was so nice to catch up with each other and share with her a bit of what the last year has held for me. It was also good for me to refresh myself of the things that characterize Maggie’s Place, as she inquired about the ins and outs of the home. She joined our house for community night on that Tuesday and before we ate, as we always do, we completed our gratitude circle – going around the table and saying what we are thankful for. Steph, being reminded of the time she spent in community in Mexico, graciously reminded us of the blessing of clean water and having a safe home. Everything we are thankful for is an important part of our lives, however, once she stated those things, I realized how often I take them for granted.
I may not be able to accurately predict what will happen each day at Maggie’s Place, but I am so blessed to live in an environment that feeds my stomach just as much as it does my faith. On top of that, it also provides a comfortable home where I feel not only safe and supported, but the happiness of those around me too. I am so well taken care of, in so many ways. It feels as though everyone living together in community is in turn empowered to have the responsibility and joy of caring for each other.
As the summer draws in on us and I have more opportunities to share about Maggie’s Place with my friend, and soon with the Corps members who will arrive and be with us for the upcoming months, I am reminded of how comfortable I have become in a place that has provided so much for me.
Although I may not always acknowledge how thankful I am for the basic necessities that are provided for me at Maggie’s Place, those are the things that lead to the other experiences that unfold here. In having safe housing, support, resources and nourishment, everyone who passes through the doors of Maggie’s Place is allowed to learn and think about unfamiliar situations with increased dignity. We aim to foster friendships that are as deep as family roots; to have conversations, both silly as well as difficult – only shared with great confidence in one another. At the end of each day, we know that whether or not we have succeeded or failed by our own standards, there are people to encourage us and love us regardless. I have been the recipient of all of these things and it is an immense blessing!
“The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.” Psalm 23:1
By Rebecca Kirch, MissionCorps Member at The Michael House
