Hello Bridges to Home Ministry Friends:
It would seem logical that after completing 324 moves the ministry teams might become dispassionate about these events and the people the ministry served, as if they are just one more on the now long list of referrals.  However, that is so far from the truth, and the moves that occurred on the past two Saturdays prove that we meet so many wonderful and humbling people and that each move has its own unique and very special quality. 
The moves for both Terry and Richard teemed with emotions of disbelief mixed with anxiety as well as utmost gratitude and humility.  Terry is a Marine veteran who thought it would be just 2 people arriving on February 5th to assist him.  He greeted the team of 7 with open arms, but became very anxious as  activity heightened and furniture and other goods kept coming into his apartment.  He finally sat down in a bit of a daze and then shared that he just cannot handle a crowd of people. This is the reality for some of the veterans we serve, so we finished what we could and quickly packed up and left.  He texted his apology later as well as expressions of his gratitude, to which we responded with apologies for overwhelming him and our gratitude for the blessing he is in our lives.  Silently I pondered how humbled I am by Terry, who is trying very hard to recover from past traumas that debilitate him when he is in a crowd.  I am very proud that he was able to verbalize this issue to us.
Conversely, Richard teared up multiple times during the move as he shook his head in disbelief that this was really happening for him.  Richard is a Navy veteran who was part of a fighter squadron on the carriers USS Constellation, USS Kennedy, and USS Carl Vincent.  When the trailer and team arrived he said he felt like a kid at Christmas.  As the move unfolded he shared that he never thought he would ever end up homeless, but he did, and how immensely appreciative he is to have his own bed after 6 long years of not knowing where he would sleep each night. 
Please enjoy the pictures below by clicking on the white arrow on the edges of the pictures.
 

The entire team- Ron, Richard, Viad, Ben, Terrie, Sharon, and Dennis-was so touched by both of these gentlemen and their reactions to us streaming from the Suburban and trailer bearing gifts to adorn their new homes.  These moves are the reason we remain energized to continue service in the Bridges to Home Ministry.  We all have a calling to live a life of mission wherever we are and however we are able.  When you support this ministry, you are answering with a loud and resounding “yes” to God’s call.   Grateful recognition to Jenny, Pat & Gil, Kathy & Bob, Howard & Miranda, Pam, and Carol & Bill who contributed so very generously on behalf of Terry and where most needed within the ministry.   God can work through you and use your kind donation of time, treasure, and talent to convey a profound message of love and hope.
The ministry is in desperate need of persons who can drive the Suburban while pulling the fully loaded 10-foot trailer.  You could volunteer at your convenience and commit only to the days/times that work for you.   There is a great need for drivers generally on Thursdays and Fridays when donation pickups are done, and most Saturdays when the moves are completed.   Please consider if this is a way you can contribute to the continued success of this ministry.   It is an important part and just may be how God can use you.

Lord, let me live each day mindful of all You have done for me in the past and hopeful of all You will do in the days to come.

Mary
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