Where to Now?

I first met Kenneth about three months ago. He was a member of our first Utah Support Group meeting. The first meeting was comprised of ten evacuees. From the very beginning, Ken wanted to know questions relating to establishing residency here in Utah--if only temporarily. He stated in that meeting that he felt empowered by his belief in God. And that God had seen him and his finacee to safety.

By the next meeting, Kenneth had secured a job as a bus driver, on probation. He was excited by "earning a living," rather than having to soley depend on FEMA or Utah state-supported programs. As of this writng he is in his first month as a successful bus driver.

Kenneth had his own small business in New Orleans. So, he is no stranger to taking responsibility for making things happen in his behalf. He is sure to rise through the public transportation ranks very rapidly or find some means for upward mobility.

During the fourth Support meeting, Kenneth was married before the group. It was very appropriate, since we were his family and friends. We celebrated as we would have at a more elaborately planned reception.

The first form of transportation Ken secured was a bicycle to get back and forth for minor errands and grocery shopping. He felt blessed to have a means to move around conveniently rather than being forced to walk or complain about not having a car.

The final piece of the puzzle for Ken was visiting New Orleans two weeks ago. Once he saw the devastation there, his mind was made up. There was no way his immediate plans involved moving back to New Orleans. Salt Lake City, the most unlikely place on the planet, is now his home!

I have personally gained a new, enduring friendship.

Tomorrow, we begin the series on "Spirituality in Our Lives."