Our Founder's Heart
 

Grace and Greetings Family!
 
Springtime, for me, is a season of reflecting and enlightening.  However, as the days speed rapidly into months some of us realize that many thoughts we brought to bear in January, have already fizzled out in April.  I liken this condition to those who initially are fired up and ignite up like a sparkle firework.   We burst out the door running with confidence, then sizzle in and out of ideas and ideals until our actions toward accomplishing them simply stop—and just like that our enthusiasm has completely sputtered out!
 
On the contrary, another beautiful thing about springtime is the opportunity to begin again.  All things blossom brand new, including and according to our faith, and the hope that lies within it.  If what you are seeking the Lord for has not come to fruition—just keep watering and cultivating the expectation with prayer.  For the Son-light shines continuously upon the promise that will soon become a harvest.  This is what we love about the work of H.O.M.E.  Each week, we not only get to water a mom’s hopes and dreams for tomorrow—we also get a glimpse of God’s divine provision through what you give today!  From the core of my heart I truly believe that H.O.M.E. is designed to be all about … FAMILY.    
 
You see, it’s easy to be overly zealous about what we ourselves expect from God—but does that same enthusiasm wash over us when we see the needs of our family, friends, co-workers, church members or those with whom we are not closely acquainted?  Most of us struggle with embracing the fruit of ‘long suffering’ as it often requires us to carry the burden of someone other than ourselves.  Today, people are running extremely low in supply of empathy and sympathy for our fellow man.  As such, for many, it just seems easier to concentrate on the “ME” parts of life instead.
 
Understandably it takes a lot out of us to see so many "needy" people in the world.  Truth is, we ALL are in need of something. And if meeting others needs mean falling short of meeting our own, our patience quickly wears thin or run out altogether.  With almost half the year behind us, and more than half our days ahead, what will you endeavor to blossom this season?  Are you asking God to produce a certain kind of fruit in your life?  Well, springtime is a great time to start looking for the harvest—but be mindful that selfishness must die to make room for selflessness to grow.  
 
As always… lovingly and graciously,
 
Carolyn A. Watson

 

Pearl of the Quarter
 

Chantal Magloire was born in Porter Prince, Haiti.  At age five her family moved to Florida where she later joined the military to perform active duty from 1998 to 2003.  As we pause to say “Thank You” for your service to our country, Ms. Magloire, we also would like to commend her for ten years of caring for precious newborn babies as a Surgical Tech in the labor and delivery department—a special set of skills she learned in the armed forces. 

What impressed us most about Chantal’s story is her unwavering support for her eighteen-year-old son, Hasahnn, who is graduating in May with a full ride to Florida Southwestern State College.  “I love her so much… she is the strongest and most devoted person I know.” He lovingly expressed about his mom.  Because of her, Hasahnn’s motto is… “Failure is not an option.”  Even without a dad in the home, this gifted and talented basketball player is truly an inspiration.  He is a sweet-spirited son and a humble young man.  It is because of him that Chantal moved to Atlanta last year in search for better opportunities for Hasahnn—who she truly believes will make his mark in the NBA and in the world. 

While moving to Georgia proved to be a positive decision, the struggle they experienced with transitioning was indeed a challenge.  They resided at an Extended Stay for about two months; then lived in several churches until Chatal was able to save enough money to move into an apartment of their own.  “After getting an apartment, paying rent and utilities I was trailing behind for the longest and could not afford furniture,” she explained.  “I was referred to H.O.M.E. and from the first call my mind was put at ease—all the way until I received furniture…” she continued.  

Chantal begin to see many of the milestones in her life being accomplished.  And having furniture was a huge relief for which she is grateful.  Her words of encouragement to other moms who may be in a similar situation are, “Hold on to whatever faith that drives you—you will pull through.”  Chantal smiles as she invites us in; offers her usual hospitality of Gatorade and bottled water; then shares these heartfelt sentiments, “It feels good to just be sitting on a couch—I hope someone tells other mothers who are struggling about this program as well… I’m so happy and indebted to H.O.M.E.”