Finding Common Ground
July 22, 2011 at 11:01 AM
Two experiences this week remind me that we are all more alike, than not and you only have to look to find that common ground on which new friendships can be built.
Wednesday a group of real estate agents arrived in the FOH kitchen bearing a generous cash gift and donning their gloves and hairnets to serve lunch to our guests. It was a homecoming of sorts. The Real Estate Association of Pioneer Valley has been one of the longest running groups of volunteers on Worthington Street. For more than 20 years, despite a kitchen that was ill-equipped and a dining room half the needed size, their monthly luncheon was a highlight in the lives of those without homes, surrounded by poverty and problems. Like many sales careers, time is money and relationships are your bread and butter. So the realtor’s luncheon was obviously inspired by the real meat and potatoes of it. They understand what the homes they sell really signify. The realtors know that it’s about having a sense of belonging, a centering, stabilizing place from which to start and end each day, a key to independence that allows you to choose for yourself, what and when. Even though they may not be able to find these individuals a home, they serve up hope of one by their nurturing presence.
The New England Missionary Baptist Convention rolled into Springfield for the weekend serving up its own brand of Evangelistic Ministry. I have to confess that I have long coveted the stylish outfits with matching hats that Church ladies are known for. My own place of worship is more of a come-as –you- are gathering. But I can’t help admire the self-worth that stands behind those visions in white, or pink, or any color but BEIGE. It is that appreciation of fashion both materially and spiritually that the Women’s Auxiliary is seizing upon. The Fashion Share is inspired by 1 John 3:17 LT: If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion-how can God’s love be in that person? Convention goers select a favorite outfit from their own wardrobe or shop specifically for a woman who is homeless. At their luncheon aptly themed, “Displayed Evidence of God’s Love,” they share the clothing and so much more! The fellowship of new friends, inspired by God’s love will be the souvenir that every woman attending today’s lunch takes away.
Kathy Tobin
After almost thirty years covering the news for television affiliates in Western Massachusetts, Kathy joined Friends of the Homeless in the fall of 2009 to help raise money and the profile of the organization to fulfill its mission. As Director of Development, Kathy is available to help you understand the work we are doing and how you might contribute to end homelessness in our community.