In our community we have a diversion program where young men and women who made some dumb choices can learn lessons without destroying their reputation.
These young people usually are assigned community service and struggle at times to find it. To me, it is a grand opportunity to impact a life as well as a learning opportunity that impacts mine.
I have found these kids to be respectful and willing to listen to my preaching, answer my incessant questions and put up with my white board lectures. They have pulled weeds, vacuumed, helped, served and hopefully find themselves in the middle of something bigger than themselves.
Recently, a young man called to ask to work. I have to admit that I drug my feet at first because of my jam packed schedule. However, after I met him and found out about his life and his goals and his love of the outdoors and family...I was glad he was there. He tore down the Christmas decorations, made my husband's day by showing his bow and pictures of his elk, vacuumed, set up tables and chairs and tore them back down. He helped me during church and after.
A young man in limbo and un-moored. Hard working and detailed. He is the rare young person who takes initiative and sees things that needs done. What hidden gifts and potential he brings to this community and world. His hours are done...but he will be in my prayers.
Another young man and woman came to meet with me to begin his community service hours. To a person like me...a wealth of insight and learning. This young man grew up immersed in the drug culture. When I asked his goals for his life...he looked at me like I had lost my mind. He handled the whys, hows, what and more hows that I threw at him like a trooper.
If we listen...we can learn how to reach those young people around us. They want us to know.
He has gone. But I wonder. Did those pages and pages of goals that he wrote settle in his soul? Will he remember what I said about a God who loves and adores him? Will the trajectory of his life change because someone believes he can?
I hope so. They changed mine!
If you are asked to provide an opportunity for community service...please consider it. It will change your life!
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