First City

In the late 60s in 'the second city', on the southside at 43rd and Calumet, there stood a mission center to reach out to drug addicts and alcoholics. There was a young lady 18 years of age and addicted to heroin and 'Shaky' who left the program prematurely. I'd say to myself, "I don't see how he can last much longer out there". I was once confronted on that street by a loud and angry man, threatening me, and a good samaritan came to my defense and rescued me. He forced the angry man to tone down, leave me alone, and move on. I continued my mission in spite of my fears and inhibitions. I confess; I was afraid in the valley of the shadows of death. But in spite of my fears, the Lord was with me with rod and staff. Nearly 50 years ago, God sent someone to stand on behalf of a college student studying for the ministry, I could have been named 'Shaky'. I cannot say that my faith presently is so strong that it destroys my fear. But I can say that God's grace disallows my fear to destroy my faith. My fears said, "Leave this area"; my faith said, "Trust and stay". For the longest time, she was known as 'The second city'. But for me, she was and always will be 'My first city'. She is most beautiful. I lived, learned, and loved her for just seven years. I walked, roamed, and rode on her streets, some of which were dark and mean; but most were not. There were times I feared her but loved and labored for her betterment. She robbed but never abused or beat me, and yet I loved her still. I miss The Brookfield Zoo and the Museum of Science and Industry. A very bold one and full of character, but is on the windy side and cold. Although I left Chicago, the truth is that she remains in my heart and soul. 08022017PoSp