The first day I arrived in Portland, I went downtown to find a homeless person who I could take needed items to the next day when I had the grandchildren with me. I found these 3 wonderful people who were just who I was looking for. I asked them if there was something I could do for them, and if they would meet me the next day to receive the items. Their names are Sophie, her brother James, and her best friend Pam. They asked for a sleeping bag, inter-city bus tickets, a gift card to Safeway for food, and something sweet to eat. We agreed to meet at 5pm under the Morrison Bridge. The children went with me to buy their items and were SO excited as we walked toward them at the appointed hour. Sophie was the sweetest person, calling us angels from God and thanking us profusely. They all three were gracious, loving people. Sophie asked if we could pray together, so we stood in a circle and she said the most heart- felt prayer of gratitude I have heard in a long time. I was humbled by their example of trust in the Lord and appreciation for their many blessings. My grands were deeply touched.
The first day I arrived in Portland, I went downtown to find a homeless person who I could take needed items to the next day when I had the grandchildren with me. I found these 3 wonderful people who were just who I was looking for. I asked them if there was something I could do for them, and if they would meet me the next day to receive the items. Their names are Sophie, her brother James, and her best friend Pam. They asked for a sleeping bag, inter-city bus tickets, a gift card to Safeway for food, and something sweet to eat. We agreed to meet at 5pm under the Morrison Bridge. The children went with me to buy their items and were SO excited as we walked toward them at the appointed hour. Sophie was the sweetest person, calling us angels from God and thanking us profusely. They all three were gracious, loving people. Sophie asked if we could pray together, so we stood in a circle and she said the most heart- felt prayer of gratitude I have heard in a long time. I was humbled by their example of trust in the Lord and appreciation for their many blessings. My grands were deeply touched.
I forget how many homeless people there are in downtown Portland. Our family has done many things for them over the years, but in the end I think they do more for us by teaching us the joy of random acts of kindness and simple respect for one another. There but for the grace of God, go I.
9 comments:
My kids will not forget this one for a long time. They love helping the homeless. Count your many blessings......
Mom, I might have to put that post on my blog as well. We just don't see that in Cache Valley, and I'm afraid my children (some more than others) have no sympathy for the homeless and think they bring it all on themselves. That just gave me an idea about Bear Lake. I'll e-mail it to you. Anyway, I wish my kids could have an experience like that with you. Maybe in Ogden? Maybe for Christmas?
That is so great. I love that most children have a natural compassion on those less fortunate. What a great experience for the Lake children.
What a wonderful thing to do. This is the kind of thing my mother would do with her grandkids. I knew I liked you from the very first time I visited your blog. You are such a great example. I was so touched about the prayer. God really does love his children. Isn't it great to be his instrument. Bless you and your grandchildren.
Dear Staceys mom...this blog seriously touched my heart and made me cry...you are truly an inspiration doing Heavenly Fathers work here on earth. You really do lead by example. We need more people like you doing random acts of kindness all over this world.
Making an appointment with the homeless was very well-thought out to enhance the experience with the kids. One never knows what small exposure can set them on a more selfless course for the future. I'm reminded of the experience we had with Erik in London and his incredible honesty in returning the change from the 10 pound note after buying a warm meal. He certainly didn't have to, but his integrity belied his homelessness. I need to revisit the poem that I wrote about him after being so moved. Much like the three people you blessed in downtown Portland. And as Sydney said, we may never know their full story. Poverty dramatically stares me in the face as I travel the rugged back streets of Bombay. I hope our business venture proves out so that I can feel good about making a small improvement to their quality of life.
What a beautiful family tradition! One we all can and should emulate...
Loved this!
so neat! As we like to say at our house...you never know when YOU will be "the least of these."
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