Day 3 Oct. 9 (drafted Oct.10)
Total: $65,589.00
You want to know a real war zone? Want to know where a real spiritual enemy is ripping people apart? It’s the college campus. It is by far, one of the most dangerous places for a person with a weak faith or no faith. I talked about this on day 1 and here is another story.
A college student passed by the fire, took a few more steps, and then wheeled around. He told me the sweet smell of the fire flooded him with memories of his childhood and relationships so tender to him. We chatted for a few minutes about the shack and then he slowly unpacked a story that was tearing him apart. In a nutshell, his roommate who now lives in Texas came out to him the night before. This student who I’ll call Jack said he knew about his roommate and was not surprised. However, he was fearful of his roommate’s condition because he was contemplating how and when to tell his parents. It seemed this was going to be extremely difficult. Jack was also worried because of these factors affecting his friend: a job he hates but is working with his uncle, has rapidly lost 40lbs, is experiencing addiction of alcohol and marijuana, and is in a depressive state. He also has a pistol in his possession.
Jack is torn up and asked my thoughts on how he could help his friend and sought suggestions on how his friend might tell his parents. We shared together some creative thoughts. Eventually, I learned more about Jack’s journey and his own struggles and demons. Our conversation finally came to a close and I asked if I could pray with Jack. I prayed for his friend, their friendship, and protection for both of them. I prayed they would reconnect with the Savior that desperately wants them back in relationship. When we finished our prayer, tears were streaming down his face. He thanked me, gave me a hug, and strolled away.
I hope to see Jack again. I know that if we can get students serving and helping others, it is a game changer. Something ignites and connects. We all experience poverty at times. Maybe it is not financial but it could be relationships, support networks, and spiritual resources. Serving with others maybe builds a ramp, a roof, or a floor, but it builds something in us as well.
If you have children, youth, or students, I pray you seek ways to get them serving others and ideally as a family. And, my hope is a child never has to worry about being accepted and loved no matter what their struggle.
Extend love, build more,
Lisa
www.arm-al.org/give www.arm-al.org/shack
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