Now that the title intrigued you, let me explain
In late December, the Franciscan Center hosted a family from Afghanistan in Sabbath House while they awaited more permanent housing arranged by The Gulf Coast Jewish Family and Community Service. As you may know, The Sisters' House is just across the driveway from Sabbath House. On the day the family moved in, I was at The Sisters' House and thought about going over to welcome them. I looked around for something to bring with me and couldn't find anything suitable. "I'll go tomorrow," I thought. "No, get over there right now and welcome them, Cathy!" another voice said. That voice, I might add, sounded very much like my mother.
So I went over and met Mirwais Noori and his wife, Nazifa and their four little ones, ages 2-8 years old. Mirwais worked for the Americans in Kabul and escaped, like so many, when the Taliban took over. They came with only the clothes they had on at the time. The agency had supplied many urgent items and I asked if they needed anything else. Mirwais, who speaks English quite well, translated for his wife who replied that they could use cooking oil. Ah, something I could provide! I invited Nazifa to come over to The Sisters' House with me so we could see if there was anything else we might have that she could use. With much sign language, pointing, and shouting (because everyone knows that if you can't speak a language you can just shout and will be understood!), we did a fine job of gathering together some essentials. Best of all, we communicated that laundry could be done here. There were a number of trips back and forth between the houses and much laughter at our communications. The children had the most fun when I remembered that there were a couple of bottles of bubbles on the porch. We gathered some crayons and paper from the art room, too.
At one point, Mirwais came to the kitchen door and asked me to join them for the evening meal. Any other Wednesday I would have been happy to, but that night I had plans to join friends at one friend's home for a Christmas gathering.
When I was leaving Sabbath House that day, after our last trip with laundry, Nazifa stopped me at the door. She had to give me something. She opened the fridge and foraged through what had been given to them. Finally, she emerged smiling and handed me a can of Red Bull and a banana. I left humbled and grateful for the lesson in how important it is to receive graciously.
When the women who come to The Sisters' House heard of their need (Nazif is pregnant with their fifth child) the response was quite touching. A few trips have been made, first to another temporary residence not far from here and then last week to their more permanent place in Brandon. Toys and learning games for the children, new and slightly worn baby clothes, a stroller/car seat combo, and over $500 in gift cards were received with great appreciation and not a few tears from Nazifa. And of course, each time she had to cook for me and whoever was with me. It is so important to give and to receive.
I am sure The Sisters' House will remain involved with the family. If you would like to help, something for a newborn or mom a gift card or a good wish can be sent to The Sisters' House:
The Sisters' House
Attention: Cathy Cahill
3006 N Perry Ave
Tampa, FL 33603
And do keep them all in your good prayers.
