Have you ever stepped into a new environment and felt uncomfortable?  Conversation was minimal, it didn't feel natural, but very forced.  This was the exact feeling that we had when we ventured into the neighborhoods.   People questioned why we were there, what was our agenda, and often asked why we were delivering food.  Our answer was that we wanted to make sure you were supported, and we wanted to help.   When we started with the Mobile Grocery, we noticed that their was often tension between our guests, and little to no conversations taking place, people were just existing.  As we consistently showed up, learned names, and started to learn about our friends the tenor of our visits slowly changed.  Fast forward to today, our friends have taken ownership of their neighborhoods, friendly banter is happening,  people are showing general care and concern for their neighbors and helping them.  As we actively engage we have had the opportunity to celebrate birthdays and successes, we have been with people who have struggled with illness, with those who have experienced loss, and those whose situations are just tough.  We listen, we pray, we hug and we show up.  Thank you to all of the JFM Compassion teams for consistently serving - you make a difference!  If you are feeling nudged to engage in Mobile Grocery or Central Free (Reed Manor) let's talk - [email protected].