A gift at L'Arche

I visited L'Arche again. It was just for dinner. I walked in greeted people and one of the core members took my hand. He refused to let go. He just held it. He sat down, spoke to people in his own way, even participated in the prayer, while holding my hand. Here I was, a grown man, knowing almost no one in the room, with a big goofy smile on my face. I felt welcomed, truly welcomed, heck: poured into by one guy, who does uses his hands to communicate. He held my hand and refused to let go. He walked me around the house, he introduced me to everyone. It was different, but I really appreciated it. I even got to talk to those that serve the core-members, like really get to know them. We had some really funny moments, but we would not have been comfortable enough to share if not for the residents. I came by myself, because of him I was not there alone. For a moment, I was welcome into family. For a moment. That was the gift.