The Safest Place in NYC

Today is Valentines Day. That really has nothing to do with this article, except that love is the underlying impetus with which I write. Today as I was present to serve lunch to the 35 or so women who came in to Maryhouse, (some of whom are experiencing homelessness), I realized that being among them is the time/place I feel the safest in New York City. I have struggled with a sense of belonging since arriving here. What with endless opportunity, stimuli, perseverance, expectation, work, inspiration, beauty- sometimes it's difficult to truly relax. I think we need to feel safe in order to relax. In addition to feeling physically safe, I realize that a sense of belonging is also crucial for one's rest and flourishment...(is that a word? it rhymes with nourishment so that's a good thing). The past few nights I have barely slept. I partially blame it on the amazing moon's capacity to affect our energy and mood. Also, thoughts swim around in my head regarding where I belong. After finally falling asleep at 2 AM and awaking at 6, I decided to use a life line and "phone-a-friend", aka: txt to see if he was awake first. His response: "You seem rather upbeat for being awake so early and feeling lost!", to which he had a good point. :) Could it be that we're not as lost as we sometimes feel?

Perhaps some question this sense of belonging more than others. As a person who believes in God, I wish I could rest in the KNOWING that we all belong. A steadfast knowing of a "love that surpasses knowledge- that we may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God", as written in Ephesians 3:19.

After 3 restless nights, I wasn't sure how starting back to work today would be. As soon as the women flooded into the kitchen, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. They called me by name, even diminutives such as Sarita. I felt seen, and valued in my imperfection.

We hugged.
I love them.
They love me too.
In the nurturing presence of one another we find safety.

These incredibly strong, smart, tough, sweet, caring, nurturing, gentle, resourceful, brave, funny, talented, unique, FAITHFUL, accepting, sensitive, impervious women... To me, their presence is the safest "place" in NYC.