"I will always have my memories."

The dump trucks, bulldozers and back haulers pulled onto the property at about 10:00 a.m. on Monday October 6th. I was standing in the front room with Ms. Pittman, holding her hand and letting her take in all of the memories that her home has held for her over the past 40 years. She began to sob, praying silently that the Lord would be with her and most importantly her children, to keep them safe, and secure. All I could do was hold her and let her cry, shedding tears myself.

The contractor walked up and saw the scene and silently backed out of the room, letting her have a few more moments. I asked her if she wanted to be alone and she looked up at me and said "Angel, if it wasn't for you, I couldn't lay my head down at night without worrying about the rain pouring in on my children. No, don't worry about me. I will always have my memories."

We then walked out of the house, shutting the door for the last time. We walked across the yard to get out of the way. I signaled to the contractors that they could start. Those first few minutes were probably the hardest but as the house came down, a new sense of hope settled among all, but especially the homeowner. She had a big smile on her face and looked toward the heavens and thanked God for people who still have compassion for those who are less fortunate.

As she walked away, heading to her car, she turned back one more time. I could see the tears in her eyes. But me, as a case manager/social worker couldn't tell if they were joyous or sad. But me, a Christian, could tell they were both. Letting go of the old is hard sometimes but knowing that God knows our future as He states in Jeremiah 29:11, makes it a little easier.

Thank you to all in Vermont who are working so hard and diligently to make this happen. Thank you to all of my volunteer friends all over the world who are praying that this is a smooth build, with no accidents or delays. But most of all, Thank you, Lord for giving me this opportunity to see Your hand move in such a powerful way. It's to you, Lord that I give all of the praise, honor and glory.

Deborah Hatcher
Case Manager Specialist
Ms. United Methodist Disaster Relief
Jackson County