HEAT!!!

Growing up, my dad kept our house quite chilly! I was used to wearing gloves downstairs and using my rice bag to warm me up. I was not accustomed, however, to my workplace and home being an icebox because of broken heaters. After huddling around a space heater and hitting the Y's sauna all weekend, I was looking forward to a toasty SCA. Sadly, the boiler is broker and the vents are leaking. Right before buying 2 space heaters for our house, my roommate's dad said, "Simple living is keeping the heat low, but it is not freezing!" Despite my complaints, last night I realized that I've had a glimpse into the winter months for the homeless. Even in the south, it gets cold. For those homeless people who don't get into a shelter, they are left to fend for themselves on the streets of Nashville. All humans deserve protection and heat. It is unfair that many people throughout the world spend cold nights huddled in doorways, walking around, or curled up on park benches.

Good news everyone! I’m going to Haiti in January. My church is visiting its Sister Parish. The details are few, but the date is set. January 31st-February 5th!

just fine

Every day, I have probably 6-8 people ask me, "How was your day?" I've realized that I have been responding, fine. At first I was a little surprised, since I normally am more descriptive. I try to give details and to be honest. I thought that I had become one of those people who say fine, but who really isn't feeling that way. In truth, work is fine. It is not bad, miserable, or like hell. It is not great, exciting, or fantastic. Work is tolerable. The boys are making some progress. A lot of things are still wrong, obviously, but I can't change them. When we don’t have physical altercations, the day has been a success. Sad, huh, that my standard is so low. For my boys, however, it is hard for them. They argue constantly. Today, when I heard 3 boys helping each other on their worksheet without arguing, I wanted to jump with joy.

Last week, I learned that my student’s grandma died over fall break. This boy already struggles with depression, so I’ve been watching him pretty closely. He has really been struggling. He wants to sleep in class, isn’t paying attention, and is quick to anger. When I talk to him, my heart cries. This little boy has dealt with so much in his 10 short years. I am amazed by his strength (even when it is misdirected). Please, pray for his safety. Please, pray that I can show him how much I care about his happiness and health. Pray that he may find comfort.