2020 August
By a Joy Junction Staff Member (JBF)
Each of us experience hardships, a ridge of some sort, on the road that we are traveling in this life. For example, a speed bump is placed on a road to control the speed of vehicles, to slow them down, just as unexpected events arrive in our lives to slow us down.
Many times, we are in too big of a hurry to slow down on our own. So, we need those reminders to be placed in our path to cause us to pause and take note of all that is around us.
This summer has really been a challenge for all of us. The COVID-19 pandemic caused changes, or “speed bumps,” to occur on each road and in each household of the world, one way or another.
We’ve seen it all over the city, state, nation, and world.
Change, although different, is not something we need to fear. Embracing change, and looking for the positive aspects in it, will encourage those around us to do the same.
It can provide hope for a brighter future.
We can be the catalyst that begins a new “order” to our lives. A new plan is an opportunity to make alterations to something that is not necessarily bad, but maybe just needs adjusting.
For example, some of us have gotten reacquainted with family members because we were forced to spend time in the same household all day long. Others have chosen to get out and ride their bikes just to get out of the house. As well, old recipes were dug out of the drawer to be cooked, or new recipes tried in order to move away from the mundane.
Speed bumps placed along the road are small ways – reminders – for us to take a minute and look around us.
Change can be good.
A wonderful future is in store for each of us, no matter where we are – working from home, shopping alone, wearing masks, or going about our business as usual.
The guests staying at Joy Junction feel the same kind of trepidation when it comes to change. The “speed bumps” may look different than those in the lives of people who are not homeless, but they still exist.
Choosing to take time to evaluate, or re-evaluate, the circumstances of any life is a wise choice.
No matter the circumstance, we want to make sure our guests know that they can feel some security while they are staying with us.
We have not changed who we are. Our focus is on taking care of the needs of those who come to us. Period.
There really is hope for a brighter future…with or without this virus situation. We work hard to provide food, shelter, and programs for those who have lost so much.
We serve all kinds of people, of all ages at the shelter. We currently have an 88-year-old great grandparent, families, couples, singles with and without children, and even unborn babies waiting to be delivered.
Each one is respectfully provided for with food, the opportunity to shower, and a space to sleep. Whether they are a great grandparent or a baby, the goal is the same – to encourage them and nourish them as they work through one of the hardest times of their lives.
When unexpected things happen, and those “speed bumps” cause insecurity to enter the circumstance, life does not stop. It has to continue on.
When finances dry up and family is not an option, staying at Joy Junction is a safe and secure answer that is offered to those who have no other avenue.
Fear and uncertainty, generally, are a few of the first emotions felt by those who come to our doorstep. Easing their minds is one of our first priorities – which levels out one of the “speed bumps” in their path.
We comfort them the best we can. We help them feel like part of the family and strive to restore their confidence as they seek to improve their circumstances.
Will you be used in this current situation, full of “speed bumps,” to make positive changes in your life…your surroundings…your family…your job…your friends…or, the homeless?
We would love to be a part of the new “order” of your life. Please consider giving a gift toward helping us provide hope for the hungry and homeless of our city.
Donations help us minister to each person who comes to us.
We greatly appreciate all the help!
