This week is Respect Week in our area. The Community Empowerment Partnership for the New Lodge area is putting on several events, some of them at the 174 Trust. The week will highlight the work of community projects and how they are inclusive and exemplifying the ideals of respecting differences.

http://www.dsdni.gov.uk/nbcau_empowerment_partnerships#cep_greater_new_lodge
(for more information on the CEP)

The children in the afterschool project have been working through some lessons I put together about respecting differences and creating artwork that will be displayed this week along with information about our project. So, in the spirit of Respect Week I painted a picture of the occupants of 31 Thorndale Avenue. The children wrote a bit about the person they respected and I'd like to share with you why I respect my roommates.


(From left to right)

I respect Alison because when I'm baking or cooking she sits in the kitchen with me, DJ's our favorite tunes from the computer, and is the best at stirring things. She leaves me messages on the magnadoodle in the hall and she makes me laugh, especially late at night. She will finish any food that is leftover and usually mixes it all together. When she has a really tough day she can still laugh about it and end by saying how much she loves her job. She understands the beauty of having an ADHD conversation and she is kind and patient in a way I truly admire.

I respect Dan because he can put up with 3 girls everyday. He taught me never to throw something away without asking (Christmas cake that was months old) and he taught me to be more confident in my own opinions and not worry about what other people think. He makes great pancakes, opens the window when he cooks something smelly, and plays beautiful music on the guitar. He does things that need to be done, even if no one will see or give him recognition.

I respect Libby because she taught me how to pluck my own eyebrows, she takes videos of me and Al dancing and laughs with us late at night. She watches Nick Baker's weird creatures with me and appreciates how often I change my mind. She persevered in her placement with great patience and determination, and she continues to love and sincerely care for the youth she works with even though funding is running out. She organizes the silverware in the drying rack. She tells great stories and laughs out loud at the computer when no one is around. She has a heart for the children in Northern Uganda and shares the message with a passion. I respect her even though she is an Appalachain State grad and UNC fan. :)

God blessed me with wonderful roommates who listen to me, surround me with grace and love, and make my days bright just by their presence.