Saturday, May 18
~ Ellen Rasmussen

My heart has grown bigger because of the love and care shown to me by my overnight hosts. “Treat this as your home,” they said. And it was better than true. Through laughter, story, and hospitality, friendships were made, prayers were prayed, and peace, a just peace solidified its place in our hearts.

My hosts have been dealing with some health issues and their community showed much love and care coming in and out throughout the evening. Much coffee, tea, candy and dessert was shared throughout the night. As their family and friends came to wish them well, the “stranger” in their midst was included.

From the patio, to the living room, and to the garden, the seeds of new relationships were planted so be that be love may grow. In the morning as I prepared to leave, my hostess blessed me with a gift of a fresh picked lemon from their garden.