Today, half of Grace had the opportunity to work at a warehouse called UDC. It is an understatement to say that I was completely inspired. Maddy Hindermyer and I were blessed to meet a lady named Vanessa, who ran the warehouse. After a conversation of small talk, Vannessa was PREACHING!
She grew up in Detroit, ended up going to school in D.C., and moved back to what she said was still her home. When she came back, she said she felt like she had just been in a war. The odd thing was, she wasn't sure who she was fighting. Houses and companies in ruins, lives destroyed, the city forever changed. That really stood out because she was so unsure about what they did to deserve this, why this had happened, but she still was overflowing with hope and faith in the city.
Another part that stood out to us during this conversation is INSPIRING. She said that there are 4 choices: life, death, blessings, and curses.
When you pick up a cigarette, are you choosing life?
When you pick up a beer, are you choosing life?
When you rob a bank, are you choosing life?
When you go into someone else's home and strip it of everything inside in 5 minutes, ARE you choosing life?
She got very emotional during this conversation because she was so passionate with helping her community and living through Christ.
When the group was leaving, we ended in prayer. Megan Ozimok noticed the relationship that Maddy and I had made and offered for us to give her a prayer shawl. We walked up to her and told her we would keep her in our prayers and give our wishes that her hopes for the warehouse would be fufilled.
So, I thank all of Grace Lutheran Church for giving me, and the Grace group these types of opportunities to build relationships, and learn life changing lessons. And, thanks to the prayer shawl makers!!
We love YOU ALL so much and hope all is well in PA :)
With lots and lots of love,
Maci Russell :)
P.s. Love you Lucy Russell, sending kisses!
Maci -- thank you for such an uplifting story. We miss you but are proud of what you are doing in Detroit. Love, Mom
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