L'Arche Spokane
August 18, 2021
Becca started at L’Arche Spokane as a Live-Out Assistant in July 2019.
- Share a favorite core member memory.
One very snowy morning I parked across the street from Trinity House to later witness Carl (a core member) of his own initiative shoveling all around my car to make sure I could drive out easily. It melted my heart and the snow! Every night, Carl also walks me to the door, says goodnight, and shuts off the lights.
- Share about a funny moment with core members and/or assistants.
Another assistant, Lydia, and I one day decided to make a dump run in our blue van. And that thing was PACKED top to bottom, splitting at the seams! We’re bobbing along the highway and someone honked at us! I thought it was because we were driving way too slow, but we soon realized it was because our side door was wide open and garbage was flying out! I thought it was the funniest thing ever. I proceeded to hold the door shut for the rest of the drive!
- Share about a time when you felt supported by core members or assistants.
Just a week or so ago, I came into my shift late when working with Bob. I had been going through a lot of sadness and stress and I just started balling when he simply asked me how I was doing. Bob then took the time to pray such a powerful and sweet prayer over me, and included one of the core members. I received hugs from both of them and instantly felt the love of Christ surrounding me. I know I would never find that in another workplace. Also, Shane, another assistant, saved me when I ran out of gas at a crazy busy four way red light!
- How has your experience in L’Arche Spokane transformed you during your time in community?
I think about how God made each core member and assistant so unique! Each individual I’ve come across through L’Arche, I probably wouldn’t have met otherwise. Despite our differences, we all come together in community so wonderfully. We fit like a puzzle. Through that I’ve learned to love and appreciate everyone’s views and experiences much more. Because at the end of the day, our main focus is on the core members, not our differences.
- How does your experience in L’Arche impact your view of individuals with developmental disabilities?
All in all, it’s shown me how regular they all are – that we are all (disability or not) more alike than different. Most of the time, the core members are able to bring me back to reality and calmness better than anyone else. They all have a way of reminding me what life is supposed to be about: loving God and his people.
- What would you say to someone who was thinking about supporting L’Arche Spokane through their time or resources?
If you have the time and resources, do it. I walked into L’Arche not knowing how much it would change and grow me. I feel so blessed that even on the difficult days to come to “work,” it feels like my second family. Loving God’s people and having them love me back has touched my life in the most precious way here at L’Arche Trinity House, and I think that anyone and everyone would benefit in the same way.