Second City

In the late 60's in 'the second city', on the south side at 43rd and Calumet, there stood a mission center to reach out to drug addicts and alcoholics I recall there was a young lady 18 years of age and addicted to heroin And there was 'Shaky' on Calumet who left the program prematurely I'd say to myself, "I don't see how he can last much longer out there" Once, I was confronted on the street by an angry and threatening man But just in time, a good Samaritan came to my defense and rescued me He forced the angry man to tone down, to move on, and leave me alone. I continued my mission in spite of my fears and inhibitions. I confess; I was afraid in the valley of the shadow of death. But in spite of my fear, the Lord was with me with rod and staff. Nearly 50 years ago, God sent someone, maybe an angel in disguise, to stand on my behalf. A college student studying for the ministry, I could have been name '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 fear 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 one most beautiful that I once knew. From a teen I lived, learned, and loved her for years just a few. There were times I feared her, but left her not for fear. She robbed but never abused or beat me, but yet I love her still. A very bold one in character, but she is also on the windy side and cold. Although I left Chicago, the truth is that she remains in my heart and soul. 08022017cjPS