Loaves and Fishes 4

By this time you'd think we had seen it all at Loaves and Fishes, but on our fourth time serving meals, we were struck by the humanity and dignity of those in need. Again, dinner service started as usual, the rolls and various entrees served out to the guests.  But this time, every single guest said "thank you" and shared at least a couple kind words with us.  This is not to say that our previous encounters had been unpleasant, but it was remarkable how kind everyone acted.  That got me thinking about the cafeteria in my own school.  Do people treat the lunchladies with the same respect I was given?  Is everyone genuiinely thankful to be eating their personal pizza or giant pretzel?

I think we were acutely aware of the fact that the atmosphere in the Loaves and Fishes dining room was far more gracious and positive than those in our own lives.  It drove home the idea that we are all human, and all deserve a chance.  Another incredible aspect of Loaves and Fishes is the selflessness with which people give.  They provide meals for up to 250 out of the kindness of their own hearts, which is what makes their giving remarkable.  We met some of the organizers who plannes the meals and coordinated the dinners.  They took on a full-time job with no resentment or complaint.   During our final night with the Loaves and Fishes program, we learned the most powerful lesson of all: it is not what you give, but the attitude with which you give it.