For as long as I can remember, I have always strongly disliked change. I like things to be very predictable. My parents once threw me a surprise birthday party and as you can image, for someone who likes to know exactly what is happening at all times, that party ended in tears. I am the type of person who has lists upon lists of everything that needs to get done during the day, and have my very predictable schedule laid out in front of me. I resented change because I had a fear of the unknown. That all changed – no pun intended – when I came to Maggie’s Place.
I have learned so much during my nine weeks at Maggie’s Place, but perhaps the greatest lesson I have learned is how to embrace change. Change is necessary and good. While being here, I have seen moms move in and moms move out. The house dynamic was constantly changing and I grew to be thankful for that instead of resenting it. I saw moms change right before my eyes. When they brought their brand new baby home from the hospital, suddenly everything had changed and that tiny human being was now the center of their world. I have seen moms, who have never been able to trust anyone, hug a Corps member and tell them how extremely thankful they are for Maggie’s Place, and how being here has changed their life for the better. I have also seen change in myself. I have always considered myself a strong Catholic but being at Maggie’s Place has made my relationship with God even stronger.
As I get ready to depart back home to Minnesota, I am feeling strong and renewed. I am so grateful for my time at Maggie’s Place and everything it has taught me. I have now come to accept and even like change! However, there is one thing that I know will never change and that is God’s love for us.
“He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.” Psalms 62:6
By Laura Kettler, MissionCorps Member at The Michael House
