Dr. Susan Bettis, Director of Training and Clinical Services, shares an uplifting story from her recent shift at the front desk.
I like sitting at the front desk as receptionist from time to time. It brings me closer to the people coming here for services. I particularly enjoy it late in the afternoon when things are a little quiet and I can focus on the clients and guests who arrive.
Last week I was fortunate to meet a single mom, a refugee, and her four children, aged 10 and under, come to visit our Children’s Clothing Closet. The mother was a little shy, not yet confident of her mastery of English. The children were quiet, borderlining on subdued. The kids were well-behaved and obviously cared for. The family was a bit late to their appointment after finding traffic and parking to be a bit challenging. The apology was profuse though delivered in less than perfect grammar. Soon, Kim, the person in charge of the Closet, appeared and led them to be outfitted.
Our Children’s Clothing Closet gives new clothing to kids in hopes of making their school experiences more positive.
Time passed in the lobby. Then a very happy, exuberant and joyful group of youngsters emerged. Each grinning from ear to year, each proclaiming the joy they felt as they each toted their bag of new clothing. The smiles on all four children’s faces were panoramic. The change in their demeanor was major and somehow a sense of shared hope filled the air. They were hopeful, as was their mother, as was I.
I don’t know how long these folks have been in this country. It seemed they may be struggling. But Mom was willing to make the effort, a major effort to connect with us and get four young children here. To battle traffic and find parking in the infamous Northwest neighborhood. No small feat when you think about it. I steeped myself in the magic of the moment. And magic it was!
To learn more about the Children’s Clothing Closet, call us at 503.226.3021.