When my dad lets me borrow the car

I don't even have to drive far

As soon as the car is on

I turn up my favorite song

As soon as I arrive, I embrace the others who have already arrived

With hugs

Enthusiam

And a smile

I roll up my sleeves

And lay mats on the round next to one another

When the dinner is delivered

I become eager becasue it means the rest of the people are almost able to enter

 

Conversations multiply

As women and children enter the shelter

Strollers

Suitcases

Bags

Pillows

Blankets

Are carried inside

I put my hair in a bun

Until I am done

As I start to serve chicken pot pie onto her plate

She looks at me and says,

"Always be who you are and don't let no one change your dreams"

I hug her tightly

Then continue on politely

Spending time at the shelter is unifyig

I embrace

Speaking in Spanish

Making cards for one another

Bonding over how delicious Lindor chocolate is

And connecting with Baby Gregory

Becasue they are all a treasury

This is what my Friday and Saturday nights are all about

And the memories give me no time to pout

 

Laughter and contemplation are shared and I always try to upift others with a loving heart

That is how I do my part

The families uplift my spirits and in return I offer them prayer and a smpathetic ear

This is who I am

This is the authentic me

Sharing with others

Because they are my brothers and sisters

I spread love

Enthusiasm

And encouragement