Staying Connected
In our bustling thrift store, among the racks of pre-loved clothes and shelves of household goods, Patricia caught sight of a familiar face while browsing around during her lunch break. Byron, a man in his sixties with gentle eyes and an intense expression, perused the men’s section. He examined a dark blue jacket, then moved on to a pair of gray slacks.
"Hi Byron, I thought that was you," Patricia greeted him warmly. "Hello Patricia. I hope you are having a good day," he replied, returning the smile but with a hint of determination in his tone. "I’m looking for some clothes for church. Haven’t been in a while, but I feel like I need to go now more than ever,” he added, “I have to find something to wear!” Patricia nodded, sensing the unspoken struggles behind his words. She remembered Byron's first visit to Ashure Ministry a year ago, seeking assistance with his electricity bill after losing his job.
"Do you remember when you showed me how to send pictures to my sister?" Byron asked suddenly, "I’ve been thinking about how much that helped me lately." "Of course, I remember," Patricia said, chuckling at the memory, "you were so eager to learn." Byron's face lit up, "I still am! You see, my sister... we talk every day now. We send pictures back and forth. She lives in another state though, and with everything going on, it’s been tough. Being able to share things with her, it’s like she’s right here with me; we are staying connected, and it has really helped me cope."
Byron paused, looking at Patricia with gratitude, “You changed my life that day. Not only did you keep my power on, but you also took the time to help me with my phone. That new ability to communicate with my sister kept me going. You don’t know how much it meant to me to gain that tidbit of knowledge. Thank you."
Tears welled up in Patricia’s eyes. “I’m glad I could help you, Byron. That’s why we’re here." As Byron left the thrift store with his new church clothes, Patricia realized once again that her work at Ashure Ministry was more than just providing aid; it was about being connected, offering hope, and transforming lives—one small act of kindness at a time."