Loved & Ecouraged

October 26th was my one-year anniversary with Uncommon Grounds Café. One year since I found my home. One year since I found my forever family.
 
This year has been full of ups and downs. I’ve had more clean time than this and I’ve had less clean time than this, but I’ve never had this much recovery. I’ve never had this much direction, never had this much passion and purpose.
 
A year ago, I started working as Creative Intern for Earth Angel Apothecary - one of our women’s ministries. This week I got to see our vision come full circle. Brenda was in the D.O.C. (Department of Corrections) program at Sheffield Towers. She started volunteering here at the Café and quickly became not only my close friend, but also family to me. Mrs. Angel was out of town, but instead of working an event alone, I asked Brenda if she would want to come. She jumped at the chance! This was my first time being first lead at an event and Brenda’s first event ever, but you never would have guessed that by the looks of it. Not only did she do an awesome job of helping me set up and work the table, she went above and beyond that. She was talking to everyone, spreading our mission statement, and she was even praying for people! She nailed it! I was so proud beyond words.
 
Brenda got news that she was getting released (from the Department of Corrections) so she came to the café yesterday to say “bye” and I’m so glad she did. I really do love her so much and I don’t want her to go because I’m selfish and I’m going to miss her too much, but I am so incredibly proud of her and so happy for her. I am so grateful that I did GET TO work with her.