Finding a Way Home

Jacob Collier’s poignant lyrics reverberate in my tiny apartment, where they encapsulate a prayer for my healing and the essence of Casa Alterna’s mission: 

Don't be afraid of the dark in your heart,
you're gonna find a way 
to carry the weight of the world 
on your shoulders, 
you're gonna find a way home.

Little Blue (with Brandi Carlile)

These words resonate deeply with me as I reflect on the past few months, navigating the journey of recovery from a severe injury that shattered my upper humerus at my shoulder.

Over the past two months, I have found myself first in the throes of excruciating pain and then with sleep deprivation, all a result of the injury that still renders my shoulder virtually immobile. A subsequent surgery, which implanted plates and screws to realign my shoulder and upper arm, marked the beginning of a slow path to healing. 

Amidst my suffering, Casa Alterna became an anchor of solace and purpose. Despite the limitations imposed by my injury, I remained committed to our mission of hospitality. I welcomed three South American asylum-seeking couples, among them a family with two small children, offering them refuge and support even as I spent most of my days resting in a recliner. In doing so, I experienced firsthand the transformative power of hospitality. In moments of vulnerability, I discovered a profound sense of healing and purpose in welcoming strangers as friends.

What struck me was the reciprocity and care shown to me by our guests. Despite their struggles and uncertainties, they accepted me with kindness and compassion, offering comfort and support in my moments of weakness. In the face of adversity, our guests continue to leave an indelible impression on me, reminding me not to fear the darkness in my heart or the weight of the world. Hospitality guides us home.

In offering hospitality while on medical leave, I also learned that I do not carry this weight on my shoulders alone. I am part of a team of dedicated individuals who embody the spirit of radical welcome. 

Heather embodies versatility at Casa Alterna. As our executive assistant and grant manager, she seamlessly stepped into the role of interim director during my medical leave. With a background in theology, Heather brings a pastoral touch to our work relationship, blending practicality with affirmation. Her ability to integrate my creativity with the day-to-day realities of our organization has been invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for her presence.

Lesley (not in the photo) has made an immediate and profound impact as our remote bookkeeper. Despite being the newest addition to our team, her financial expertise brings clarity and guidance as we steward our growing resources. Lesley’s longstanding connection to Casa Alterna, including her former board member role and unwavering dedication to immigrant justice, make her an invaluable pillar of our organization.

Loyda, our residential coordinator, is the heart of Casa Alterna’s house. Her commitment to making her home her workplace speaks volumes about her dedication. As an immigrant herself, Loyda’s empathy and solidarity deeply resonate with our residents, nurturing a strong sense of belonging and community. Her impact reaches beyond our walls, as she makes our home a vital hub for food distribution and community building among immigrants.

Mags, our resource navigator, is a rising star within our team. Her youth and tireless dedication make her an invaluable asset. Mags’ ability to learn, pivot, and navigate complex relationships while supporting our residents on their journey to autonomy is remarkable.

This team serves as the backbone of Casa Alterna, weaving threads of hope and resilience into a vibrant tapestry of belonging and community. As I continue the recovery journey, I remember that “finding a way home” is not merely a destination but a collective odyssey. Together, through acts of kindness, hospitality, and solidarity, we muster the strength to persevere, shoulder the weight of the world, and find a home where all are welcome and valued.

written by Anton Flores-Maisonet