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Rev. Linda Troy
West Ohio Interns 2011

We came from Guatemala 11 years ago. We came looking for work for my husband. We live in these small houses tucked away, a few obscure streets surrounded by wealthy neighborhoods. No one really knows we are here, and we like it that way.
I’ve heard that a nearby church gives away food and we can buy clothing inexpensively. I’ve never gone to this place, because I am afraid—I’m afraid because I don’t speak the language, and I don’t know these people I know if I should trust them.
One day I heard the church would welcome us to come and shop at this store. I went with my husband, my friend, and our little children. I was shy about coming in to the store, and the people in the store didn’t seem to know what to say to me. I felt self conscious as they showed me around, seemingly welcoming us but it was awkward nonetheless. My husband kept the children outside and let them play on the church playground. I wondered if that was okay.
This new home where we live, I wonder if we will ever be truly welcome. Will it ever be truly home?