SLIP, SLIDING, …

Prayers for those who are homeless

Prayers of the Homeless:

“Thank you that I have a good job, steady income, a house, a car. All is well.
I can’t believe this person at my work! Are they purposely trying to drive me crazy? Are they trying to sabotage me or do they just like drama? How long can I take this?
Can my spouse really be needing surgery? Can they really no longer work, do anything?
I lost my job. I didn’t even get fired; I just quit. I couldn’t take one more thing.
I keep applying for work. Sure, jobs are out there! Really? Have you tried getting a job when you are old, have too much experience, have family to care for? And the health insurance is gone!
The mortgage company said they would work with me! I was submitting the amount they asked for each month and now they tell me I owe this astronomical amount in 2 weeks! In 2 weeks! What about the government plan you were putting me on? They said that doesn’t matter. I didn’t get all my paperwork in. I did though. I sent it twice because it messed up the first time.
Foreclosure. Well, I have my car. The government sued the mortgage company because they let the paperwork sit and never got me in that program. They sued the mortgage company and won. As a member of the class action suit, I received a $1000. At least I know I was in the right.
In rolls the debt quicksand. One thing is late and more fees are added which makes my account overdrawn which causes more fees. At least, I’m not paying a mortgage now. But please send Help!”

And so the security continues to unravel. Some of this has happened to me in the past, although I was able to create work due to my education and never was homeless. I didn’t have mental health issues or lack of education or disability or addictions to add to the difficulties. I had family and friends. I had opportunities. Yet, I know how quickly life can crumble.
Today, I pray for the homeless. COVID has made this situation even more real.
I am headed to a nice warm bath. I am so thankful of this blessing and also aware of how vulnerable we can all be. I am also aware of the Grace that holds us in the dark times and sees us through. I pray for our leaders, our vision to help, our interconnected love to open our eyes and hearts.
Amen.