little is BIG: November 2021 Newsletter
Dear friends,
One of the standout themes at our Advocate Forum on October 16th was don’t underestimate the efficacy of the "little" things.
Sowing into the little things over a period of time prepares advocates for being an active part of the bigger, more life altering moments. Events like taking a trip with their partner outside of the city, improving their home environment, helping them find work, or advocating for them in a hospital... even saving their life.
See below for some profound words of wisdom and insight on the subject from two advocates.
With love,
Andrew
P.S. Looking for a way to help us? Share these stories with likeminded friends by forwarding this newsletter or following us on social media.
Jesse
Jesse is an advocate and member of Do For One’s Relationship Support Committee. Throughout the last three years he and Lenny have been sowing into the "little" things by going out to restaurants, attending concerts, baking cookies, watching movies, and more.
"In short, his world has expanded, even if just a little bit.
The staff now see the life-giving value in our relationship and they’ve given us a little more leeway without being so boxed in by the system. It’s possible, I hope, that our friendship could change the culture of the group home for the better, even if just a little bit.
Relationships require patience, humility, and a hopeful faith. A faith which commits and trusts in the value of the work, even if results are not immediate, obvious, or perceptible at all."
– Jesse, advocate
Burnette
Burnette (aka Bunny) has been a faithful advocate, loyal neighbor, and friend to Stacy for too long to count. She comments on when we asked her to share about their relationship at one of our info sessions,
"When Andrew asked me about speaking with this group, I said 'I’m not sure we are a success story.' That gave me pause – who decides?"
This is highlights yet another point which is that advocates often don't realize the effect they are havng on their partner's life.
Bunny continues,
"I hunt for ways to connect with Stacy. I meet her for brunch at a familiar neighborhood diner (and make sure I tip well). I’ve tried more creative outings, although those have been less than smooth so far. I leave messages for her on the phone, just saying hello...
I have a friend who is a musician and songwriter who calls herself and her music, “As it is is good.” While I continue to pray and work with Stacy in order for her to have more positive experiences in her life, I also want to make sure I hold her in my heart just as she is."
– Bunny, advocate
Jane and I are so grateful for all the creative ways advocates and partners are growing their relationship. Here are some other ways we see advocates sowing into the "little" things.
Matthew texts his partner on a regular basis between get togethers
Sue stays in touch with her partner with phone calls and written letters in between meetups
Ali and Jenny have a go-to Starbucks in their neighborhood where they catch up
“What if someone has the freedom to approach “an issue” without having to completely surrender to the demands of financial efficiency, "impact" maximization, or the pleas of one’s political constituents? Welcome to the world and work of Do For One.”
– Jesse, advocate
From left to right: Chris, Alexa, Jesse, Sue, Jane, Bunny, Andrew, David, Jason
Advocate Forum October 16th, 2021
Thank you for your support!