Unexpected Beauty

Since today was Thursday I went to have lunch with some of the homeless of downtown Shreveport. An amazing Christian ministry called The Hub leads this gathering and so many more throughtout the week to help the homeless. I have been having lunch at Asian Gardens every Thursday with this group since about the end of December and it has been such a blessing. It probably doesn't sound like the most appealing thing, sitting in the cold and eating with people that you usually just pass on the side of the road. I have quickly come to realize that they are SO much more than what we think through our preconceived notions. They are friendly, thankful, and people, just like the rest of us. They each have stories and love to share them.
During my second visit I met Alonzo. He is in about his late 20's and has dreams of becoming a movie director. He has a vision and a drive. Everytime I go to have lunch I sit with Alonzo and we just talk about life. He tells me his problems and I tell him mine, his problems seem to be less than mine...who would've thought. He keeps me in his prayers and I keep him in mine. He recently applied to BPCC and was accepted! Praise God! I was so excited! He will be starting this fall and one step closer to his dream of becoming a movie director. A man with a vision, drive and now a way.
Having lunch with these people does not just help them but it has truly blessed me. Everytime I go I have atleast one person amaze me. Their strength and joyful outlook on life helps me to see my own life in a new light. Even today as I was leaving someone told me "God bless you." We use those words so regularly and forget how powerful they really are. Those words are very powerful. He knew the power behind those words, he pronounced a blessing over me and I was so happy to receive it!
Sitting, eating, and talking with these people might make you feel a little uncomfortable but through discomfort you can find growth. I don't know about you but I want to grow in this life and be used to help others.
If you want to get involved here is the website thehubministry.com