Going the Distance

Kindness is a superpower, it is love made real through action and attentiveness in what can be a cold and isolating world for those living through dark times. What we put out into the world creates ripples that reach further than we could ever imagine.

We hosted a morning event here this week asking celebs and politicians to have their morning shower in our Community Service Centre, in the same facilities our community uses more than 12,000 times each year. It was a powerful act of solidarity during this Homelessness Week.

It reminded me of a time when a man who had found himself back on the streets had come in asking for a shower. With such care, one of our front desk angels selected a plush towel and took time to pair a particularly lovely shampoo with an equally beautiful conditioner. Later, he sought me out to share how, as he closed his eyes in the shower and lathered his hair, the shampoo released a fragrance that transported him back to a time when life held more promise. Then as he opened the carefully-matched conditioner, another beautiful bouquet enveloped him. “For a few moments I felt like I was back in England, in one of those expensive hotels I loved staying in during business trips, but when I opened my eyes I remembered where I was,” he said. But he quickly followed with, “Thank you though – that magic moment filled my heart with joy and I can face the world afresh.” It’s not often that someone’s account of their morning shower has the power to move your heart so deeply.  These moments remind us that every person who walks through our doors carries both wounds and wisdom, pain and potential and in each encounter, love has the chance to be made real.

Ian Thorpe joined us for a volunteer shift in the lead up to our morning shower event – he insisted on no media, but I’m sure he wouldn’t mind me sharing this story with the Inner Circle. His presence brought such joy as he gently and respectfully gave his time and attention to everyone who lined up to speak with him. One of our ladies walked outside and exclaimed with genuine delight how good the encounter had made her feel – so much so that she was ready to book into detox. Another gentleman started sharing his own expertise: “Listen mate, you were an athlete for 10 years, I’ve been using substances for 30 – I could teach you a thing or two about endurance!” There really is never a dull moment in this place we call home.

Endurance is something our dear friend Byron Gray knows well. Byron went through a 12-step journey not so long ago, and his life looks quite a bit different than when he first came to Wayside. As you might have heard, Byron and I are training together to run the City2Surf this Sunday.

I’ll need every bit of his inspiration about endurance and dedication as I puff my way up Heartbreak Hill, wondering how I once again got roped into this. I’ve promised the team I would not only run but would raise $10,000 for Team Wayside – a “weary soles for weary souls” run and I’d love your support, which you can give using this link.

Just don’t look for my name in the top finishers leaderboard. I’ll be trudging my way through one step at a time, thinking of our friends here who do the same.

Thank you for being part of the Inner Circle.