Building Local Support

A key to any attempt to prevent or end homelessness is working to gain local support. There is a lot of "NIMBY" thinking - Not In My Back Yard. People want to help to end homelessness in theory, but are hesitant when it comes to putting programs in place that may make them uncomfortable or challenge their ideas of how it should be done in their community. A lot of people think that Homeless Shelters and Transitional Housing Complexes are good things, but they don't necessarily want to live next to one. If we're trying a build a community plan to end homelessness, and really work together, that type of thinking may need to become a thing of the past. Nan Roman, the CEO of the National Alliance to End Homelessness shares this point of view. It makes me happy that someone in her position has this outlook and is working towards practical ways to end homelessness. I've had the pleasure of hearing Nan speak several times at the NAEH conference in Washington, and I hope to hear her speak again in the future.



"Then you must celebrate the harvest to honor the LORD your God. Bring him freewill offerings in proportion to the blessings you have received from Him." Deuteronomy 16:10

Reflection on Struggles

I wanted to share some thoughts I've been having about the struggles of people all over the world. The people of Japan are still reeling from the terrible earthquake and tsunami that devastated their country. They are starting the long process of rebuilding while also fighting the radiation problem at the nuclear power plant. A couple of weeks ago, these people were living out their daily lives just as we were, then tragedy struck. It serves as a reminder to us that we need to be thankful for the time we have here with our friends and family and also reminds us that there are many people in need around the world who could use our prayers.


The earthquake hit Japan unexpectedly, just as my brain injury and stroke hit me unexpectedly. It took me a long time to rebuild - relearning how to walk and do things for myself. Those events caused me to refocus and live with different priorities. I am forever changed by these events, just as the people in Japan will be forever changed. Many of these changes are difficult, but not all of them are bad. I have met many wonderful people, learned a lot about friendship, and began to learn how to ask for help when I needed it. Something that hasn't changed and will never change is that there is a God who loves us all.


May today there be peace with in
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be
May you never forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you
May you be content knowing that you are a child of God
Let this presence settle into your bones and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love
It is there for each and every one of us