I've always heard the expression growing up that your "calling" in life will come when you least expect it. Until that specific moment comes, do not settle. Do not settle until your heart is full with assurance that the career you pursue will make all of your dreams a reality.
Before interviewing to be an intern, I was lost and looking for a path to follow. While I was sitting in the lobby, waiting for my interview to start, I noticed a little boy who had this lively spirit. He could probably feel my apprehension from across the room, and he walked over to me. He grabbed my hand and said, "never leave." I knew in that moment that I belonged with this organization. I knew I had to be here. I knew I had to make a difference. The thing I didn't know when that moment came is how much my life would be impacted by the residents and staff.
Before my first day, I had created assumptions and reservations. I was stepping into a world that I had never explored or been exposed to. I would interact with people I never had before. I was stepping outside of my comfort zone. I've never been so happy to be proven wrong about these reservations and assumptions.
Every day that I stepped into Hospitality House, a weight was lifted off my shoulders. Through hard days full of worry, the relationships with residents and staff continued to build me, despite their dark days. Their personalities full of wisdom and soul brought my spirits high. My appreciation for the residents and staff will be forever more. I was built stronger than I could ever imagine. Through these growing relationships, I have come to the realization that life could be completely different with one single choice or action, but also that there are people in your corner, even when you feel alone.
Hospitality House is more than a homeless shelter. Hospitality House is a home--a safe haven. This organization builds space for people of the community to prosper into the person they can be.
This place is not just a homeless shelter--this place is a family. A family willing to accept all the brokenness, hardship, but also a place to build you from the ground up--to make you a better you.
My time as an intern has ended, but the lessons and wisdom will never falter. A piece of my heart will forever live within the family of Hospitality House.
