Meinders in DC

We too would like to share our thoughts on the week we had in Washington, DC with Latreia. It was an awesome week, and it was fun getting to know the kids even better. We noticed that this group just digs in and does what needs to be done. They have very willing hearts and hands and we saw that their attitudes truly match their hearts. I wish every young adult would commit a portion of their life serving others the way this group is. They don't look down on others, they don't judge them, they just share their love of Christ with them through service.

One of the highlights of the week for us was working at S.O.M.E. on Monday. We enjoyed the staff (especially Calvin!) It is a very organized operation and we felt like we were able to encourage some of the homeless people we met. Sometimes all they need is a smile and to know that someone cares.....and it made us realize that not just homeless people need a smile and encouragement.....we can all be "Latreia" where we are!

We also enjoyed working with Family Life Services.............I believe Derek, the maintenance man, truly appreciated all of our help. Even though the task of cleaning and painting that apartment seemed overwhelming to us at first, Latreia just took it with a grain of salt. And we had the place looking "great" when we left. I can only imagine how happy some mom and her children will be when they get a place to call their own. We're blessed to have been able to help.

Which leads me to the part where we had to come back home to Sibley. It was so hard to leave! We four parents discussed how much we would love to be on a journey like this! And yet we need to stop and think about how we all really are on this type of journey. Even though we aren't traveling to a different place every week, we still can apply the same principles at home. No matter where we are, we can all love others, help others, and encourage others right where we live and work.

Thanks for a great week Latreia!

Randy & Cindy Meinders