How easy it is...

This was our first really early morning treck. We left just after 6 am to lend a hand at KARM, the Knoxville Area Rescue Mission, which shelters and feeds many in the downtown area. I think this particular service project was a humbling reminder to me (and the group) that difficult life experiences can touch us all at any moment. There were men, women, and children; old and young; able-bodied and disabled; mentally stable and those with mental health challenges; educated and undereducated. In my privileged life, I often forget how easy it is to fall upon difficult times and really only be steps away from having the basic needs of both me and my family unmet.

I was particularly reminded of many things I take for granted...

• The food I eat is my choice and not decided for me.
• Condiments such as sugar are a regular staple and readily available.
• The ingredients that I purchase and use in my food are not past their expiration date.
• Making a request to have my food heated in a microwave is not considered troublesome or unreasonable.
• I can eat when I choose.
• I don't need to stand in line with hundreds of people to obtain a meal.
• If I get up for an early meal, I can go back to sleep in my own bed.
• When I am in public, I am treated like/recognized as a valuable member of society, not laughed at, overlooked or disregarded.
• Feeling worthy of and unashamed when being served.

I left KARM with a heavy heart, but not a negative spirit. I worked alongside and served some really great people this morning. Thanks to the man who recommended a new book to me and another who provided a stimulating conversation about the history of religion...to the young women who understoond that sugar wasn't available but were so thankful for a cup of ice...and to the couple who gruffly responded that they'd try to have a nice day despite their current circumstances.

This experience was a positive reminder that I need to escape my everday comforts and be a part of the entire community, not just the community I have created for myself.

~ Erin, Staff Advisor