Al's Outreach Outtakes

Listening, actually listening, can sometimes be hard to do. And yet, it is a much more important part of communication than speaking. Only through listening do we get a chance to understand the needs of others.
 
One busy as usual Tuesday morning I saw someone we had helped a few times waiting to be served in the Food Closet. I had heard his story several times and knew some of the challenges he is dealing with. Later that morning, one of the volunteers approached me to let me know that he had served the person and wanted to share some of what he had learned.

As we talked the volunteer expressed how he always listens, even when it becomes a little tedious, because he feels that is part of how we minister. Providing food is only part of what we do; listening, showing compassion, supporting is just as big of a piece. I like to say that we are here to feed not only the stomach but the soul as well. That starts with listening.
 
A short time later another volunteer shared with me that he had just finished serving someone and, because he listened, learned that the person he served had not eaten in two days. He further learned that the person receives $75 per month in SNAP funds (food stamps) and that we are their only other source of food.

Knowing that there are many places that have food available, including hot meals most nights of the week, we quickly provided the person with a list of where they can get these hot meals and made certain that they understood they can come to us ANY time they need food. Because of your generosity we have plenty to share. No one should go hungry, ever.
 
As mom used to say, God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason, use them proportionally. A good lesson and foundation for our works!