For starters, they gave me a chance. Being born with a disability produces many unique challenges. I am not capable of moving, living, and working exactly the way an “able-bodied” person would. Most people might be tempted to let my limitations get in the way, allowing themselves to become fixated on what I might not be able to do while keeping me safe, and refusing to challenge me. Not Koinonia. Right from the start, I was rotated through a variety of jobs, several of which were completely new for me.
The assignment which will forever stand out the most in my mind is painting. Twice I was assigned to help the maintenance department paint the inside walls of community housing. Naturally, by the end of each day, I had liberally anointed myself with the white stuff, in addition to coating the desired walls. But with the paint drops that covered me from head to toe came a renewed sense of well-being and self-esteem as I saw myself accomplishing something I had never before seen myself doing. It is because of this change in perspective, that I consider the task of painting to be a very holy experience. Not only did I discover something new, but I was also able to access my inner creative source, a gratifying accomplishment indeed.
The maintenance department is not solely responsible for painting, however. At Koinonia Partners Inc, the entire community plays a part. They all come together in a beautiful tapestry of love and acceptance to make their home a welcoming haven. The acceptance I have known here is a gift I will cherish for a life-time. Koinonia is a community that cares, both for themselves and the steady stream of volunteers passing through year-round. There are regular times for sharing with one another, in word as well as in presence. A unique family atmosphere is the result.
Spirituality is very important to the people of Koinonia Partners, a fact I realized my first day here. There is a soothing calm covering the land, a Presence which can truly be felt. Throughout each day there are established times for prayer and meditation, giving opportunity to thank the Creator for all that is seen, both in nature and in people.
The people here come from all walks of life. Koinonia also welcomes individuals of all religious faiths. This diversity, for me, has been awesome. I have wanted for a while to have the chance to develop friendships with people from a variety of points of view. It is fun to be in the midst of people committed to supporting one another regardless of the aspects of life-perspective that may or may not be shared. A spirit of acceptance and cooperation ties everything together.
My experience at Koinonia Partners has definitely convinced me of the value of volunteering. This is especially true with places such as Koinonia that daily try to make the world a better place by teaching love and acceptance of those around me, even those I happen to disagree with. The many faces of humanity all have a common need: to be accepted and appreciated. If everyone can learn to do this, the world would be a much better place. I know in my heart that Koinonia Partners has made me into a better person. For that, I am truly thankful.
