This time I am moving into the house which, several years ago, was bought to be entrusted to Hope Projects to house destitute asylum seekers. We always knew the gift of this space to others might, at some point, have to come to an end, and as circumstances have changed, this is the right next move.
I would be lying if I didn't admit to having had to process some sadness that we can't continue to support Hope Projects in this way. I continue to really believe in their model of supporting people but also challenging the injustice that leave people in need of that support. I know some of those who have benefitted from living in their houses, including ours, and I know the tangible difference they make to people's lives.
But I hope and trust that the last six years of support has made a difference to the individuals, and to the organisation. I hope that perhaps something of those early news stories offered some inspiration to others, not necessarily to do the same, but to believe in the possibility of making choices that make a difference. And I hope and trust that I am continuing to make choices which, in other ways, still benefit those who are victims of the hostile environment.
I am aware that there is going to quite some adjustment to this latest move. This house has been, in some ways part of my story for a number of years and yet it has always been, intentionally, kept at arms length. Until a few weeks ago, I hadn't set foot in this house for six years. It was our house, but other people's "home".
So now, once all the packing and moving and unpacking has been done, the next task is, in this house, to create "my home". I am sure it won't take long. I am looking forward to discovering the community that will be created, the stories that will be celebrated and the memories that will be made here, in this space.
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