Making exceptions

Dear Inner Circle,

Last week a young man asked if he could sing some karaoke in Wayside’s cafe. Most evenings our Twilight team set up for this. It isn’t something we usually allow during the day as people are slowly coming to life with a warm cuppa in their hands after a hot shower. On this occasion however, one of our workers decided to make an exception. The joyful noise brought a constant flow of curious onlookers who were soon drawn in. What was meant to be a few songs turned into a full day of singing and dancing. Whilst no prizes were handed out for the quality of the singers, the prize came from the face of a young man, exhausted yet beaming. People from all backgrounds, ages and walks of life came together, encouraging each other to sing to all the classics. “If it wasn’t for that I would have spent the day drinking, thank you,” said one of the participants. Many others said it was the happiest they’d had been in a long time. It is really hard to explain Wayside to someone – it’s much better to participate in our community and be captured by the spirit of the place.[vc_row columns_on_tablet=”keep” padding_top=”0″ padding_bottom=”0″][vc_column h_text_align=”left” h_text_align_mobile=”left” v_align=”v-align-middle” use_background=”” width=”1/1″][tm_image image_id=”1257″ link_image=”none” textarea_html_bkg_color=”#ffffff” caption_type=””][/tm_image][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row columns_on_tablet=”keep” padding_top=”50″ padding_bottom=”50″][vc_column h_text_align=”left” h_text_align_mobile=”left” v_align=”v-align-middle” use_background=”” width=”1/1″][tm_textblock textarea_html_bkg_color=”#ffffff”]We have some real characters who manage to maintain a wicked sense of humour amidst a lot of pain. There are others sunken so deep within themselves they rarely emerge to the surface. One such well-known visitor usually walks through the streets in high-pitched conversation swearing at all who come near. This is a probably a defensive tactic employed to keep others at bay. The team and I always say a friendly hello, mostly without response. Imagine my surprise when I was stopped on the street and was greeted with warmth. I was captured by a beautiful glowing face asking how I was and welcoming me into the new role. We parted after sharing an embrace. I was at a loss for words and went to share this with the team. They told me how after years on the street they had finally managed to assist this person into housing. This morning that same visitor was back quietly marvelling at the joy of having carpet underfoot, hot water at a moment’s notice, a warm clean bed and a private toilet. I dare say those items should be in every gratitude journal.

Speaking of gratitude, you should have received an invitation earlier this week to attend our Celebration Sunday event on Sunday 26 August to thank Graham Long for his contribution to Wayside, and hopefully you’ve RSVP’d. I owe Graham a depth of gratitude beyond words, he has changed the life of me and my family for the better. I know the same is true for many of you too. Please join us, your presence will be a gift to him. We are also giving members of our Inner Circle the opportunity to record a short “Thank You” video message that will be shown on the big screen at the event. Our video team will be filming on Friday 27 July between 9am-12pm. If you are confident speaking to camera and are interested in participating please email [email protected] with “Celebration Sunday” in the subject line. Spaces are very limited, so we will get back to you with details if you are confirmed.

I have renewed gratitude today for my bed, for hot water and for you, our inner circle.Jon Owen
Pastor & CEO
Wayside Chapel