12/23/2025
We’re going to be out for a few days to spend time with family. I know some of you don’t have that, and I want you to know we hold that reality with care.
We want to be here for each of you every day. But serving, helping, listening—really listening—takes something out of a person.
Part of me feels like I’m failing by saying I need a few days away. But in just the last four weeks, I’ve walked alongside people through the justice system, homelessness, and job searches. I’ve driven people to care they needed. Bought meals and shared them with strangers. Taken people who couldn’t walk to the warming shelter. Heard the cries of people questioning the value of their own lives.
And I’m tired.
I need space to cry. To mourn. To be angry at injustice and inequity. To sit honestly with my own actions and limits in all of this work.
The Café isn’t my job. It’s my life. It’s where I put my energy, my values, and my hope—no matter how that may look from the outside.
We’ll be back. And we’ll keep showing up.
But for a few days, I need to breathe.
If you’re in crisis or things feel like too much, call me directly at 574-223-2233. If I don’t answer right away, jump into Messenger—others from the Café are there and can offer quick answers, empathy, or help.
Our friends at Celebrate Recovery at St. John's Lutheran Church LCMS and at the Cross are kind and caring. Talk to them if you need a hand in this time.
And if you need immediate emergency help, call 911. You can also call or text 988 anytime to reach trained crisis counselors.
You don’t have to wait. You don’t have to be alone.
