Lethal Trajectories - Michael Conley [174]
“There were no jobs available in Mankato, but I was able to find part-time work in a recycling operation near St. Peter. Problem is, I had no transportation. I had to get rid of my car—couldn’t afford the gas, anyway—but I went online, and through the co-op’s transportation matrix, I was able to hook on to a ride-share arrangement. I did what I could to pull my own weight, and I’m proud to say I didn’t have to take any government assistance—not that any was available. My daughter also chipped in by volunteering at the co-op’s daycare on weekends.
“Are we out of the woods yet? No, not by a long shot. I doubt I’ll ever make what I did prior to the crisis, and I think it’s going to be a long time before Mankato gets back on its feet. The shock waves have just been too severe for any quick turnaround.
“But it hasn’t all been bad. I’ve found things I never would have in the old days. I have come to appreciate the power of God working in all of us. It seems to me like He works through each of us as we help others, and in the process, we help ourselves. He has not given me more than I can handle, and I’ve learned more about myself and what’s important. In all honesty, I’m more content with what I have; the material things no longer have that same importance to me. It’s taken me back to a simpler life, and I’m more willing now to look to God for help rather than run away from him.
“That’s about all I have to say, other than thank you for being here for me when I most needed you. I was down and out, and you picked me up and gave me back my self-respect. How can I ever thank you enough? I am just so grateful.”
Helen’s quiet but sincere testimony elicited respectful applause as the audience reflected on what mattered most in their lives. Veronica then offered a few closing remarks before sending everyone off to their small discussion groups.
“Spring is in the air, my friends,” Veronica cheerfully said, “and I say that both literally and figuratively. We’ve weathered the most extraordinarily difficult winter we could’ve ever imagined, and we’re still here, smiling and working together. We’re learning to deal with our fears; we’re becoming more self-reliant, and we’re working through our challenges together as a community. Above all, we’ve learned to trust in God and our friends for guidance, strength, and wisdom.”
The audience broke into another loud round of applause.
“I don’t know how this will all turn out,” Pastor Veronica continued. “Perhaps one day we’ll get back to the way things were, but this is probably our new norm. What I do know is this: despite our challenges, something wonderful has happened. I actually hope we never return to our old self-centered, materialistic ways. We’ve been blessed with experiences that demonstrate the value of the Golden Rule and trusting in God, and that’s what must always matter most—regardless of the economic circumstances we may find ourselves in the future. That’s the special thing we must always keep in our hearts and souls.”
Out in the audience, Jake Hawkins’s raspy old voice rose, singing in an off-key warble, “Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me….” Within moments the audience had risen to its feet and joined Jake in song with an enthusiasm and thankfulness that left few dry eyes in the crowd.
“Thank you, Jake, and all of you for your wonderful words of praise. There’s no way any closing prayer I could give would top that. As we split into discussion groups, I ask all of you to discuss one question tonight: What is the most positive thing you have learned from the crisis we’ve endured over the past six months?”
As Veronica left the church for her drive home, she thought about her own question. I’ve seen this crisis bring together my family and community in ways I never could have imagined were possible, and in it I’ve seen the hand of God guiding and directing us all.