Amanda’s Story

“The more we got to know each other: name, face, and heart, the easier it has become to grow to care about them as people, not just The Homeless.”

 I had never really been face-to-face with people without a home, food, or essentials, so at first, it was frightening and overwhelming.  They live completely differently than I do.  I found it difficult to reach outside myself and engage these strangers.  But the more we got to know each other: name, face, and heart, the easier it has become to grow to care about them as people, not just “the Homeless”.  I’m learning to love them for who they are.  That process has been such an eye-opening experience: they are no different than I am!  We’re all born with hearts longing to be loved and cared for, hearts full of goals and dreams. Just like us, they want to be thought of, leave a legacy, and pass on to other people.  Circumstances and addictions have made it difficult for them to do this.  At this point, they want someone to care, to give them a helping hand.

Serving with People Loving Nashville has been a life changing experience.  I started with the assumption that I’d be helping them, but instead, they help me break down barriers and stereotypes I’ve allowed society to form in my head.  I feel challenged to give more than I think I’m able.  Most of us feel like we don’t have time or money to give much, but this is an opportunity to give anyway.

It’s also been interesting to see how we’ve formed our own community of friends.  When you serve with People Loving Nashville, you meet other people who serve and give and love others, which leads to deep, meaningful friendships. In turn, I’m learning to give more than I think I am able in those relationships too. Monday nights have become the day I look forward to the most!