Another article

This time from Margaret, or "Bouf" as she likes to be called.

Whatever you did for the least of My brothers and sisters, you did for Me.
Matthew 25:40

Each Wednesday night Andre House reopens its doors after dinner cleanup for Artist’s Attic. Kurt Zampier and I have the pleasure of running this activity every week which allows guests to express themselves artistically. We have guitars, a piano, and a variety of art supplies for guests to use. We also provide desserts, coffee, and lemonade. Most guests join us to relax and
draw or paint while a few provide entertainment on the guitar or piano. Being a piano player for many years, I was eager to facilitate Artist’s Attic. I planned on serving these guests by providing refreshments, listening to their stories, and helping them in any way that I can. The first week for Artist’s Attic arrived, and I was excited to live out the quote stated above by serving the Christ that exists in each guest, however I quickly learned that it was I who would be served.

One person, TJ, was playing the guitar and singing popular songs. He was very talented, and we all recognized and enjoyed listening to his songs. After chatting with him for a bit, I mentioned that I wanted to teach myself how to play the guitar during my year here. He offered to help in any way he could and immediately started teaching me chords and short melodies. I took detailed notes so I could practice the chords at home. I left that night anxious to begin learning the guitar. The following week TJ returned and led me through another lesson. He taught me simple songs from bands that I like such as Metallica.

Now that it has been a couple of months since I’ve been here, the day to day duties are beginning to lose their hype. I’ve become tired at the end of each day and sometimes on Wednesdays, I just want to go home after dinner instead of staying late for Artist’s Attic. But once TJ sits down with me and the guitar, I become reenergized and my mood improves. I volunteered for Artist’s Attic intending to help others, but it was TJ, and other guests, who recognized a need in me and reached out.

I think helping me with the guitar is also beneficial to TJ. I estimate TJ to be in his thirties. He has a ponytail and pretty much looks the part of a rocker guitarist. He said that he is
diagnosed as S.M.I., severely mentally ill, and stays in a shelter at night. Teaching me how to play guitar allows him to use his creative talents constructively. His mind stays focused on teaching me, and I can see how excited he gets when I play a melody correctly. Because of all that Andre House offers to others, sharing his knowledge is his way of giving back. TJ is just one example of the many guests who have helped me daily in a variety of ways. Both the staff and
the guests truly live out the message in the quote from the gospel of Matthew.