In our compost at the garden are growing some very interesting plants, interesting because nobody knows how they got there. Obviously, some seeds made their way into the compost and starting growing, but papayas?!? In a summer where not much work had been done in the garden due to the hot weather, these particular plants thrived, perhaps because of their "rich soil" location. I really want to move them to a more convenient location in the garden, one that still allows us to utilize the compost, but because they are already big and starting to flower, relocation would be devastating for the plant. Underneath the two or three healthy papaya plants are some tiny ones trying to make their way up to the sky. Now these plants can be moved and replanted in a new location. Will they grow? We never know, but we know that certain plants like certain areas of the garden better, dependent on shade, water, companion plants, etc.
It seems that there's a tipping point where the plants seem to experience a growth spurt, to adapt to the bed they're in, and produce to the best of its ability. They level up to where they require more attention and love in order to produce the most fruit (or vegetable). We do what we can, water, prune, weed, and God provides the growth.
Our momentum in relationships with students and their families really took a hit during the pandemic. Some moved, others scattered, but all were somewhat distanced socially. We did virtual programs for a year, mostly with students that wouldn't stick around. As we began to get back to in person, it felt in a way that we were starting over with relationships. The people on staff were changing, new people would come and go, constantly changing, distressing 2nd Mile as though a plant itself. With a few years of programming under our belts, we've seen not only a growth in the number of students in our programs, but also in its depth, seeing students begin to get more comfortable and familiar with us again. To our surprise, some students from before the pandemic would begin to pop back into our lives, requesting to volunteer or chaperone or donate or sign up relatives to our programs.
As these new students begin to build consistency and time spent in our doors, I've seen some amazing friendships, character building, and knowledge of what it means to be a leader in their community. Each and every day, my family grows, and I'm truly blessed to be put in a position, to have a job that allows me to be in close proximity to those who are often disregarded, dismissed, ignored, or rejected by society.
It's a beautiful thing to see the light switch on in a student's life, where they learn more about themselves and God, their place in the world, where they are no longer living to survive but in order to thrive and elevate those around them.
Please pray for the 20 students in the Two:fiftytwo After School Program, up from 14 last year.
Please pray for the 14 students in the BLOCK Middle and High School Program, up from 8 last year.
Please pray for the progress and momentum of our new building as we seek to get final renderings and price points for certain renovations.
Please pray for me. I dare you to text me some encouraging Scriptures, as God has used that so directly in my life. I would appreciate it.
