Balloons and Roses

Last week when I walked into my office I encountered an unusual scene. In my chair there were balloons, a gift bag, a rose, and a sign that declared May 24, 2007 the "Designated Whitney Day." No one in my office space seemed to know where it had come from, and my birthday had passed weeks ago, so I couldn't figure out what all the fanfare was about.

I opened up the gift bag to find a couple of little trinkets - a stuffed dog and a glass swan(?) figurine. There was also a card signed by a "secret admirer."

As I read the card, I got a little teary eyed. It was an expression of gratitude for all that I've done in my time at Horizon House from someone who "sees the angel" in me. It was from one of our formerly homeless neighbors.

I'm not sure I deserve such recognition. Because "I'm not better, I'm just here," remember?

But even still, it meant A LOT. This evening I'm sitting in my living room, staring at that rose, so grateful that I am here now, doing this.