They say "April showers bring May flowers." But as I discovered last April on my drive down from Nashville, San Antonio sees a season of flowers long before May begins. The same striking fields of beautiful bluebonnets that welcomed me to a new home a year ago have again sprouted, marking my one year anniversary of South Texas life. Among the various memories of new life, friends, work, apartment, house, culture, and on and on and on, it's the people who are most highlighted in my mind. People who everyday give of their time, their hearts, and their lives to truly live Jesus with their words, actions, and attitudes. I'd like to introduce them to you the way I see them:
Leslie, our joyful, passionate visionary and leader serves wholeheartedly. An avid reader and sponge for learning, she constantly pushes herself and her partners in ministry to grow. She holds the weight of God's calling to this neighborhood on her shoulders. Even still, she is as likely to be seen helping in the food pantry, playing a game with a child, eating at a barbecue, or talking to a walk-in in the office as she is to be seen at her desk. God has gifted her with the humility and focus to keep HIS ministry here on the right track--HE is given all the praise for this, HIS work in the Lincoln Courts.
Chuck, or Charles (as only I call him), while technically our Grant writer, is a shared commodity on the West Side. Chuck knows everyone, and everyone knows Chuck. A willing heart and a focus on God's calling on his life to the West End make Chuck a willing servant for many nonprofits, churches, initiatives, and ministries in the community. I'm hard pressed to recall anything that occurred on the West End in my year here in which Chuck did not have a hand. He is a lover and connector of people, and a living library of knowledge about the people and resources in this community.
Sandra keeps us all on our toes (with our bellies full). Her attention to detail, quest for understanding, and consistent "can-do" attitude inspires all who step through the doors to strive for their own personal best at life. She loves people, and often gives the first (and sometimes only) impression of Urban Connection to people who walk in or call. Who better to make sure people know we love them, and are here to help them find what they need? Her own quest for knowledge and understanding have kept our bellies full over the last few months as she's experimented with cake making and decorating. Yum.
Yolanda is our resident slash-er: grad student/AmeriCorps alumna/garden manager/volunteer coordinator/community coordinator/contract staff/mentor/Urban Angels coordinator/fill in the blank. Over the years she moved from part-time AmeriCorps service member to full-time AmeriCorps service member, to contract staff, allowing her to continue to serve with her characteristic passion the people in the neighborhood. Yolanda does not mince words, or meat--staff parties always have her vegetarian favorites there. We hope God will continue to provide the means and opportunity for this committed servant to stay in the neighborhood.
Jill, my office- and desk-mate, is the quiet voice of reason in the Kids Connection office. Her gentleness and calming presence are a magnet for children, young and old alike--most kiddos will jump at the chance to do any activity with "Ms Jill." Through her guidance and oversight, the years prior to my arrival were a growing and stabilizing time for the Kids programs. She forged partnerships with volunteer groups, corporations, and other organizations whose benefits we still reap today. Though she now splits her time between her own kiddo and the Urban kiddos, Jill brings spades of encouragement and thoughtfulness to all. She balances and equalizes our team in her own deceptively quiet way.
Jennifer's talent surpasses the position she holds in more ways than one. She completes the Kids Connection team, bringing compassion and empathy to all she encounters. Her mere healthy presence daily reminds us of the power of God to conquer any obstacle, of his faithfulness, and of his grace. On the one hand, her flexibility enables me to have peace of mind during the crazy times, on the other hand, it allows her to put her legs over her head. I don't suppose all New York-trained dancers can do that?
I am simultaneously humbled by and proud of the people I work with every day. These are the unsung heroes, the quiet leaders serving in the streets. God makes the wildflowers bloom each April for them, using creation to draw all creation in worship to Him. And somewhere in there, the Texans will dress in white shirts, crouch on the side of the highway, and take pictures with the beautiful, worship-inspiring bluebonnet fields. Maybe next year I'll join those ranks.
