Today after listening to Ann Reed’s song ‘We Will Change the World’, I began to think about Phillips. What a treasure to the City and to the World. The lights being lit and hope being shared. I look around just my little piece of the world and see:
- Pastor H and San Pablo creating such healing with Art, Meals, Love, words shared and community built.
- Donna getting up at 6 am to be at bus stops with children and their parents, standing with them bringing joy and a sense of safety by being together.
- Wayne looking out for others at St Vincent and helping so many as they are finding their way.
- Chris writing letters for change, for Phillips to be heard and to be listened to.
- Jolene and her lifelong care and dedication to her community.
- Kali listening, being there, sharing stories, caring with her whole soul.
- Betty going door to door talking to businesses, checking in on them, seeing how they are.
- Marj in her 80s, walking her block to check in on people.
- Cath for opening up her home for healing and for the singing.
- Chifon being there for others and now her son leading T.O.U.C.H. Outreach.
- Daniel building community and the future with his businesses.
- Gomez leading with his heart, loving & caring; always present.
- Connor and Rita devoted, helping, changing lives one x one.
- Anna & Julie creating joy in their store & on Lake St.
- Zoe for constant hope.
- VJ for still sending hopeful messages from afar.
- Alison for her partnership and constant support & care for the neighborhood.
- Kelly devoted to fairness and to community.
- Pastor Marsha & Lisa leading with prayer.
- Abdul coaching and teaching the young ones.
- Malik looking out for the block and always there.
- Joseph, an elder trying to be heard and sharing his wisdom.
This is my world and this is how the world changes. Together. And so many more doing such good work here. Thank you to everyone for making this neighborhood special – welcoming & caring and for making the world a better place.
We will Change the World.
Jana Metge is a 38 year Phillips resident
