We spent an hour with a couple who used to be part of the mentoring program. They and an older couple met a bunch of times for dinner, or to chat. Then after two years, they moved on. But what they told us brought me satisfaction. 

"Last summer we were in a hard place and we called our mentor couple asking for some time. We went out to dinner and spilled our troubles. They were not horrified. They said they had weathered those feelings too, and survived. It was a huge relief."

This was mentoring as it is supposed to work. Knowing that someone has your history and will show up for you.

"Then last February when we were redoing the kitchen we were exhausted. I called and asked sheepishly if they might bring us dinner. They showed up with platefuls of hot food, and a smile. It was amazing." 

How about that. Having spent those evenings together when things were sunny this couple felt safe reaching out when things were overcast. 

Thank you Lord.