February 2024: Constancy, Presence, and a Whole New Dynamic
David Brooks, a columnist for the New York Times, writes, “We live in an environment in which political animosities, technological dehumanization, and social breakdown undermine connection, strain friendships, erase intimacy, and foster distrust.”
What is our vision forward in such an environment?
At our seasonal orientation, Andrew invites us to "move beyond political and cultural debates; be present with those wounded by our broken world to discover and forge deep friendships."
Below is a story about Martha and Sandy, two women who slowed down enough in our fast-paced and fractured world to see each other, to grow together, and to love one another.
Martha & Sandy
Pictured: Martha (left) and Sandy (right)
“I like it when Martha visits me. She makes me feel happy.”
Sandy (Partner) gravitated towards Martha (Advocate) the moment they first met in Sandy’s living room at the group home. “Will you visit me again? You remind me of my aunt,” Sandy said.
Martha gifted Sandy a brooch of a red and green birdhouse with two doves perched around it that day.
Trust and closeness grew gradually, unassumingly.
One afternoon visit at a time.
One math book completed.
One walk around the park.
One Bible story read together, one prayer prayed.
One visit to the hospital when Sandy was sick.
One trip to the movies, then to the Olive Garden with Sandy’s aunt.
Then to the Do For One Christmas Party.
Pictured: Sandy celebrating her birthday with Martha and others
“God puts people in my life to help me and to teach me how loving and caring He is. He put me in this position at this time in my life, and I’m really grateful for it. Sandy is sweet, funny, and caring, and she’s such a trusting person. I want her to know that I’m here for her.”
Sandy’s aunt Patty also shares,
“Martha has been a godsend for Sandy. As her aunt, I've been involved with Sandy her entire life. I know she is happy that I have been a constant presence, but to have someone else care about her is priceless. Martha brings a whole new dynamic that Sandy hasn't experienced before.
One of the things I've always wanted for Sandy is to have people in her life that care about her with no obligation, and Martha does just that.”
Pictured: Martha (left), Sandy (middle), and Aunt Patty (right) at the 2023 Do For One Christmas Party
