My book club met tonight to discuss Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore. It’s an amazing story outlining one couple’s dedication to ministering to the homeless in Fort Worth. Through their service at the Union Gospel Mission, the couple established a friendship with one of the homeless men. A friendship that would change their lives forever.
I am all about relationships, friendships and connections. For me, it’s these experiences that define our daily lives, our ourselves, and our existence. So, to read this true story, and to match that story with the concrete landmarks that I know in Fort Worth, was overwhelming. Some moments in life, through books, movies or just everyday occurences change you forever. Sometimes big changes, sometimes little changes, but those changes affect your core, and curve your path. This book did that for me. It startled me into reality; some parts of which I didn’t realize, or want to realize, and others of which I just ignored. Either way, the jolt was good for me. I need reminders of “the big picture.” I need little nudges about the “stuff in the middle.” Otherwise, I get caught up in my own to-dos, my own schedule, and my own life. In the meantime, I’ve survived, but not really lived.
If you have a few minutes over the long weekend, pick up this little gem. Think of your legacy to your children, and how they will know you lived everyday with intent, purpose, and love. Think of how we are all different, but under the surface, so much the same.
I am reading it now and it is so good! The book talks about so much the kind of life that was going on when my parents and grandparents were living. Some of it was occurring when I was growing up. I am not even half-way through it as yet, but it is very interesting read!
This is a great book! I read it almost 2 years ago and have recommended it and even given it as a gift to a lot of people. The only thing I have asked of those I gave it to is that they pass on their copy to another friend when they are through. The stories I have heard from this “passing it forward” have been amazing.
I also loved it because my wife and I have been volunteering at the Union Gospel Mission for many years. On the fourth Sunday of each month we take a group from Decatur to the Mission to help serve the evening meal to the residents and those living on the streets. This is a wonderful ministry opportunity and I would encourage anyone to find someway to be involved in a form of outreach such as this. I’m glad your book made this selection and you chose to write about it in your blog.
This is a wonderful book. One that I will read again in the future. My copy is underlined and has so many pages folded down. Denver is a very wise man.
Yes, this is a book worth recommending to friends. It makes us aware that we are all human together and that God places us on earth to live and learn together.