Addiction

For over four years we having been going out and serving the homeless. We have seen everything. When we started Nicole had no ideal about addiction. She had read about it, seen movies about it, but could never really tell who is on what if anything at all. Over the years, she has come to learn more about addictions. Honestly I wish I could have sheilded this fact from her, but then we would be living in a glass house and not doing what we do. When I talked a few blogs ago about how most people view the homeless it was the truth. Now times have change, drugs are in the picture.

In 2010 there where 1387 homeless on one night and out of this 1387 there are only 247 addicts. How sad we view the homeless in this manner. We still have to think about that 247. As an LOS leader I understand we are not here to judge or demand they get help. I can still pray with them. Coming from the background that I had, I know how addiction can ruin someones life.

Under my feet at this very moment I have my brother making noises because he is stoned on a product call "bath salt". Why is he here, because we took him in 14 months ago and he stayed cleaned for the most part. He was addicted to every drug on the market. Then he came across a new legal drug that put him on a high  that I have never seen  before. His body shakes, he was outside taking pictures over his shoulder because he didn't want anyone sneaking up behind him, he does not eat or sleep. We took him to the hospital last night and a little bit later the hospital gave him a cab ride home. Several months ago I kicked my mother to the streets, yes I said to the streets, because I was afraid for my family. She is an drug user and an alcoholic. To my knowledge she lives in a homeless shelter somewhere in Iowa. Thursday I get to see another family member leave my house and tackle the streets and pray they find whats missing in their life. So, I can feel the pain that of the families of the homeless are going through. They don't know where the relative may be. Are they high? Are they hungry? Are they even alive? The pain of not knowing is huge. That's not a plate full, it's a complete buffet. What about you, are you missing someone? I pray not.

So, when I come across someone high, I pray. I think about my family and I hope someone is doing the same for them. I don't wish that on anyone. I know that God is can take care of anything, and its in his time. I will never question that, I have seen him in action to many times. All I can do is be a tool of his and hope I am doing his will.

So know you have a little more insight why I do what I do, granted it only 25%. You know I have to be tall, fluffy and mysterious on the rest. Just kidding. God says love our brothers and only God knows I have hated many of my brothers before my walk and even during my walk. I know as God has his time, he also let it known to me this is my time to show the same love that God and so many others have shown.

Can I ask a favor? Can you take 1 minute and think about someone in your life that you miss. Maybe in that minute say a prayer for them. Or how about the next time you see your Mom give her a big hug, and let her know how important she is. I hope she is doing great.

Well thanks again for the time. I don't know if is doing you any good, but it sure makes me feel better. And please keep in mind, God granted me the gift to speak through this laptop, but he forgot to give me the gift of proper writing and spelling, so forgive the mistakes. I usually let my wife fix it, but tonight you get the real me. The funny thing is my spell check is not even working. Ok have a great night!!!

God Bless                                                                                                            Michael