Unconditional Love and Acceptance Gave Me Hope and a Gentle Transition
The future looked grim.
I was too ill to live on my own and too well to stay in the hospital. After seven weeks there, the time had come for discharge. But where to go?
It was then that my case manager and discharge planner had an idea. Would I agree to going into Hirst House for crisis stabilization and transition? Reluctantly, I agreed.
This poster was one of the first thing I saw when I was shown to ‘my’ room at Hirst House. It has been grounding and comforting to me …. full of meaning.
What a pleasant surprise awaited me there! I had entered a sanctuary. I had a private room which invited solitude and peace, yet the creaking of the stairs assured me I was surrounded by other people and not alone. This provided such comfort.
I am forever grateful for the hope, growth and affection they granted me.
At a time when I could not deal with everyday life, Hirst House offered unconditional acceptance and support, despite my vulnerabilities.
And then there was the staff. Never have I been so blessed by individuals with such HUGE hearts. I am forever grateful for the hope, growth and affection they granted me. True gems!
Today I am living alone in my own home, surrounded by my cherished possessions. They may have all been lost if not for the gentle transition from hospital to home, created by the healing hands and hearts that make up Hirst House.
Thank you so much…and bless you forever.
All my Best
Raquel Michaelis
Below is a poem Raquel Wrote in the hospital.
VISIT to CHILDHOOD (again)
Curious little child
Picks it up
This way and that.
Simple little dandelion
Weed
Beautiful.
Only wonder
Can make it so
As awe
Fills the heart
With newborn loveliness
And
Hope of a Creator.