By Denise Seibert Townsend
Catholic Charities
Over the years, you may have heard the saying about taking one step forward, only to experience two steps back. According to Cambridge Dictionary, this saying means you make progress but then experience events that cause you to be further behind than you were when you made the progress. I have occasionally used this phrase when I am frustrated with a task or plan that did not advance the way I had hoped.
However, I try to remain optimistic and persistent when things do not go as expected. I thought of the importance of remaining focused when things do not go as planned, when I read the following scripture:
“Let us not grow tired of doing good, for in due time we shall reap our harvest, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).
Catholic Charities provides services that enhance the mental health, and family, life, and work skills of those we serve. The goal of our services is to reduce poverty, improve self-sufficiency, and strengthen mental health so individuals can participate fully in family and community life. Our programs allow us to walk with those we serve, giving them tools they need to thrive, supporting them through the challenges they face, and instilling hope and confidence.
I reflected on this scripture from Galatians and how it related to our work at Catholic Charities. Often, those who we are working with may experience setbacks in their journey toward improved financial stability and self-sufficiency. These obstacles can be unsettling and frustrating for the person. However, this is where the services provided by Catholic Charities can be a source of comfort and support.
A few weeks ago, I seemed to be having one of those days where things were not going as planned. I recall feeling that I was taking one step forward to only experience two steps back. This feeling was short-lived once I received an update about Lisa.*
Lisa had been working with Catholic Charities for a few months. Initially, she reached out for emergency assistance with a utility bill that she was unable to pay. As she worked with Catholic Charities to move forward from this urgent need, we introduced her to our Neighbor to Neighbor program. Through this faith-based, intensive life skills education program, Lisa focused on goal setting, individual growth, and financial literacy. Neighbor to Neighbor supports participants as they set goals in the areas of finance and education, faith and family, health and community. Upon successful completion of the program, participants earn stipends toward their rent, utilities or other appropriate expense, helping move them forward to help achieve their goals. Lisa wanted to make changes in her life to provide more stability for her and her children. As she participated in the Neighbor to Neighbor program, Lisa and her children were living in a homeless shelter. With the skills gained through the Neighbor to Neighbor program, she remained focused on moving forward; including the goal of obtaining housing. Our team at Catholic Charities was thrilled when Lisa called our office to share that she and her children were moving into their own apartment, just in time for Christmas. She also shared that her hours at work had increased, which resulted in an increase in her monthly income. Lisa was making great strides forward and shared she now has hope for the future.
As I thought about Lisa’s story, I recalled that it was not long ago that she was experiencing setbacks, but she remained focused and faithful in her journey to move forward. Just as the scripture reminded us, we may not immediately see the reward for our good acts, but when we are faithful and focused, good things will happen.
*Name changed for privacy