a new years story.
Fresh Day...Fresh Year.
I woke up this morning after a rather nice New Years Eve. I was able to go with a friend to his Moms house for dinner. This was another nice Dutch experience. I enjoy these whenever I get to have them! From there I went to work in the Cleft until 1:30. This was an interesting night though. We had a man come in who I had never seen around the area. He was a bit "peppy" (for lack of a better term.) He had obviously recently smoked stimulant like Cocaine/Crack. This is a common sight in the District, however; it never ceases to break my heart and I utterly refuse to let it become "normal." Anyway. He was able to focus and hold conversation. He told me his name and that he came from Suriname. He was a bit paranoid and his thoughts were jumbled and quick. However, what told me is that he came from a local church here in Amsterdam that also has its own rehab center for chemical addicts. He said he was in there program for something like 8 months and then actually work in the program for 6 months doing prayer ministry. I have heard stories similar to his. He was familiar with the Scriptures, and could quote some to me. Yet, he seemed powerless to interpret them to his present state or understand them. It was frustrating to me in some ways...But I know that I need to harness those feelings and put them in perspective. He felt welcomed and drawn to us. Rightly so, he knows God and His love for sure. He knows the power of God. Yet, in some ways he doesn't acknowledge his present state of relapse and the way he has been mastered by drugs. He is a victim of his own choices and the misleading of others. This is for sure. His mind is clouded and not processing life's events. If feels offended that we would say his drugs are bad. Yet, I tell him, "You are not your drugs. You are a person that I love and God does unfathomably more. Your drugs are bad. You are not." I say one thing and he hears another. What does he actually hear? I don't know for sure. Through his clouded thoughts and mixed words I cant really interpret. I seek to express love to him that is strong and ready to take actions. I desire to aid in and work through all that he is dealing with. But, for now he is back on the street and I will look for him. Prayer, I am learning, is the only way he will be drawn back to God. He is Gods child and workmanship. This situation is rather heavy on my mind I guess...But it is definitely a prayer concern. It is a part of life here and its things I enjoy working through in my work.
The rest of the night was really good. I met up with a group of friends here in the city. We walked around for a while and enjoyed the amazing time that is New Years Eve in Amsterdam. I anticipate all that this new year will bring with it. Its potential is so very big. I can't even rap my head around it all, I guess! Take care everyone...In Him...Will
(Comment this)
Tony, whats your email address? You should email me so I have it...willstacken@gmail.com (Comment this)