Blessing Experience

This past Wednesday I went to Harvest Vineyard Church in Evanston to volunteer. Every Wednesday this church has a food drive along with a clothes drive. People are allowed to come and have 2 bags of food per family along with 5 items of clothing or other items (such as books or baby material).

Truthfully, I was very nervous before going. I wasn't sure what to expect. On top of that, I was late. I had to stay at school until 5 and go all the way to Evanston. I was suppose to get there before 6, but got there a little past 6. Yet, when I went in, I was greeted with friendliness. A man named David showed me around. They were all surprised that I came all the way from Vernon Hills to volunteer, and thanked me many times. I didn't help out at the food drive, but was placed at the clothes drive. My job was to hand out bags to anyone who needed it and just talk with the people who may need my help.

When people received their food and began coming to the clothes section, I was really nervous. Also, I was one of the few that were new. Everyone else knew eachother or worked together before. I was afraid that I'll offer a bag to a volunteer-and i did at times. But everyone was understanding and no one was offended. I was taught to treat everyone there with respect, and at times I forgot if I was volunteering at a clothes drive or actually working at a clothes store.

I cry very easily.

And as soon as I saw the children tears started rolling out.

They were so thankful about everything. I would read one of the books on the table and they would giggle with delight. I'll offer them a piece of chocolate and they would thank me repeatedly. It made me realize everything that I take for granted, and how I'm rarely thankful for it. Not only am I not thankful, but I expect more. More clothes, more eating out, more movies. I'm always asking for more, while these kids only want their necessities.

While going home so many things were going through my head. The experience was blessing yet fun. The experience made me feel like I was making a difference, even in the smallest way possible. I'm coming back in a couple weeks, and I'm excited. I know that the next experience will provide me with unexpected surprises and blessings.