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The Harry Tompson Center is committed to providing a calm and caring environment in which to serve the needs of the poor and homeless in the downtown New Orleans area. The Center is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all those who come to us in need, not merely by responding to physical needs, but also by attending to the whole person with respect and compassion, after the example of Jesus. |
Super Dan!
(Written in October 2007) I’m Super Dan, coming to save the day! Well, to tell you the truth, I think I’m beginning to look more like a decapitated chicken. I prefer to think of myself as Super Dan saving the world one toothbrush or plastic bag at a time, but I’m sure from the outside I look more like the former than the latter. Being amongst these diverse and wonderful people and knowing that I can help people gives me boundless energy, but channeling that energy is another story altogether. I’m trying to learn the fine art of doing my best to help people and to stand by the rules and limitations of the shelter (and myself!) It’s a lesson in patience and love, really. The Super Dan in me has had to learn that there’s only so much I (or anyone) can do. I can’t fix every problem I encounter (for a while I certainly tried!). Sometimes (for their sake and mine) I have to say no and sometimes the best I can offer is nothing more than a loving heart. Saying “no” can be every bit as loving as saying “yes.” But really, I’m starting to learn that there’s no better gift that I can give. I believe that it’s not what I’m doing but how I’m doing it that really matters, that is, with a truly loving and open heart to all.
Writer’s Note (Written December 12, 2007): I feel I have been maturing marvelously over my duration at the
Super Dan!
Dan Thelen 2007-12-12
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