"The waste of materials of the conscious mind can always be transformed into flowers of compassion, love, and peace. Our consciousness is a living thing, something organic in nature. There are always waste materials and flowers in us. The gardener who is familiar with organic gardening is constantly on the alert to save the waste materials because he knows how to transform them into compost and then transform that compost into flowers and vegetables. So be grateful for your pains, be grateful for your suffering-you will need them." -Thich Naht Hanh
Right before joining Mission Year, I had just moved to a new city and was trying to start a new life, again! I left my hometown Reno,NV the spring of 2013 hoping to find some newness, and direction. And honestly, maybe trying to run away from a thing or two. In the summer of 2013, I had just left Olathe, Kansas and was living in Steilacoom Washington, desperately looking for ways to live out my values. But despite filling out dozens of job applications and relocating to two new cities, I couldn't seem to make life happen. I became very disheartened that summer that all my efforts were in vain, and that I had made a mistake by leaving Nevada.
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him..."- Romans 8:28
One night, while feeling exceptionally discouraged, I read over this passage. It occurred to me that whether my decision to move from Reno was right or wrong, God was still able to give me insight about my next step. (Which just so happen to be Mission Year)
From that experience, I began to see how resourceful God can be with our shortcomings and short-sighted decisions. God does not just throw out our efforts like trash, however self-interested or pain driven they may be. God is able to use all of our efforts and all of our suffering to bring wholeness to our lives.
These past two years have held many surprises. I have marched in protests. I have worked in gardens. I have been a mentor, been mentored, and had my first book of poems published.
I have worked in summer camps. I have learned how to not burn out working at a high school. I have burned out working in a high school. I have learned that my talents are both valuable and able to be used.
I have seen challenging relationships turn into deep friendships. I have seen pain be transformed into beauty. I have seen doubts turn into conversation. I have seen fear of the unknown met with understanding.
As I exit this season of life, I feel comfort knowing that my half-answered questions, unfulfilled goals and remaining pains are not waste, but may just be things waiting to be worked out for good.
Simple Living
-What's Next?-
I hope that all of you will be pleased to know that I have been employed at my service site, Nueva Esperanza Academy, this coming school year as a one-on-one assistant for a student with autism.
I will be returning back to school at the Community College of Philadelphia to pursue a degree in Theater Arts.
I have been contacted by the Drexel University Dornsife Arts Center to help facilitate a monthly poetry event. We plan to feature local and high school poets at "Word Play Wednesdays" here in Philadelphia starting this September.
I plan to continue embracing a lifestyle of simplicity and will start construction on my very own tiny home here in the Kensington area by October. (http://tinyhouseblog.com/stick-built/escape-traveler/)
Also...
I have released my one chapter book of poems! "Blessed Are Those Who Mourn" is a tribute to faith, justice, pain and healing.
https://mrospoetry.bandcamp.com/
Folks, thank you for your help! This season of life has been quite the journey, and I couldn't have done it without you supporting me second year to learn, live and love. This year you have contributed, by your collective efforts, all of my living expenses for the year, including groceries, public transportation, rent and more. I am equally thankful for your spiritual and financial support.
If you still would like to receive a newsletter from me each month, separate from Mission Year, please send me an email indicating your interest.
I pray that God blesses you in all that you do this month and would encourage you in the pursuit to love your neighbor as yourself!
