Friday 13 January 2017

February 23, 2009

Hello friends,

With last week's parashah, Mishpatim, the Torah turns to its task as a law code, primarily about civil and tort law. Often in Jewish tradition, "compassion" is seen as an important corrective to justice. Whereas justice is unyielding, a strict demand for what is right and wrong, compassion allows for flexibility. It appeals to our merciful side, seeing forgiveness as the means of moving forward.
Since last week's Out of the Cold, words are finally materializing to make sense of an act which resulted in my disappointment and dismay.

Last Wednesday morning between 6:30 and 7:00 am, one of our security guard's coats, which held his wallet and keys, was stolen. It had been hung on the volunteer's hooks in the back hall.  The thief also fled in the guard's car. As of today, nothing has been recovered except perhaps the guard's faith in humanity since he is still going to work for us.

I never intended to perform a "cover-up" but, because you are all such trusting and committed members of OOTC with a deep desire to care to the needs of people who deserve this attention, you should be aware and/or reminded of some important OOTC procedures.

* There is a temptation to be social and let your guard down. We tend to go overboard with our compassion.  Remember that we are not saviours. Volunteers may need to control their enthusiasm.
*  Many of our guests require high maintenance which volunteers are not trained to provide. We should stay within the guidelines set for the program.
* Volunteers must always work in teams of two when dealing with guests.
* To maintain the safety and integrity of the guests, volunteers and program, the guests receive only the first name of the volunteers. DO NOT PROVIDE ANY OTHER PERSONAL INFORMATION.
* Bring with you only necessary belongings. I can lock up anything else of personal value.
* Be aware of "dealings" between guests and/or activity between guests and volunteers. Bring any concerns immediately to security or myself.
* Very few volunteers are allowed to leave the church alone. A companion is always available to walk someone to their car/bus stop, etc.

As we continue our important task, remember that compassion is what we wish to serve each week, but not at the expense of safety and loss.

See you tomorrow.

Cindy

Responses:

Hi Cindy, I am sorry that trust has been damaged by this deliberate act of betrayal. There is some consolation in believing that most of the guests will be as disappointed as the volunteers with this breach of confidence.Your reminders about "professional" behaviour for volunteers are very useful.  Take heart.  This too shall pass!  See you tomorrow, Norma

Dear Cindy:  I note a deep feeling of hurt and disillusionment in your last missive.  It was beautifully written and expressed your  concern and worry.  But,  don't be too harsh or defensive,  as this is the first of this kind of action, and hopefully may be the last.  Do you think that in your little talk before dinner you might mention something,  very subtly and hope that the perpetrator will come  forth?  Remind me to tell you a funny story around just this kind of  unlawful activity.  It might help cheer you up.  See you tomorrow,  Miriam


I am totally in shock of what has happened and so sorry for the guard.  I sincerely hope that he or she will beapprehended.  I can only think that perhaps this person will have a conscience and return everything to it'srightfull owner.  We must have hope and faith that this may happen.
Barbara

Cindy, will you be speaking about this incident in your remarks to our guests at tomorrow's program before dinner?  Something like Crime Stopper. Perhaps a reward or an incentive (e.g. extra serving of dessert) will be offered if meaningful information can lead to the return of our security guard's wallet and keys.  That is really what we would like to see happen. No questions asked.  As for the return of our security guard's faith in humanity, well, he has shown it by agreeing to continue with his shifts but this is a good reminder for all of us involved in HOOTC. Does the list of overnight guests help at all to track down this offender? Have the guests that stayed overnight been of assistance in terms of
identity. Is there a passage from the Torah that speaks about how one should conduct themselves when charity and compassion is being shown/given to them? Perhaps our knowledgeable rabbi could assist with how to handle this situation.
Just a suggestion.
Joanne.

Hi Cindy;Very sorry to hear about the incident last week. I commented to Bill that you hadn't sent a report after last Tues and now I now why. It does shake up your faith a bit and brings up the reality of who you can be dealing with.Glad that nobody was physically hurt. Hope today goes without problems--as it usually does. Marcia

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