By: Sr. Betty
Sr. Betty met Mr. Tom on the corner of Albany and Cermack. They were going downtown to a lawyer’s office to get some legal help and advice. On the way to the pink line L station Mr. Tom says, “Sr. Betty we have to go to the pawn shop first.” Mr. Tom was taking care of his business (he could not leave any important personal papers or any money in his one room). Sr. Betty asked the security guard if she could walk around the shop and check things out. Leaving the pawn shop they hopped on the pink line, took care of Mr. Tom’s concerns and after returned to the pawn shop and reclaimed his property. Sr. Betty talked to all the staff and thanked them for being so gracious.
But wait, there’s more. It’s amazing how God prepares Sr. Betty for what she would need!
Two Weeks later a young couple come to Taller de José for help. Elaina was about 25 years old. She works in a pawn shop that was robbed earlier this week. Her boyfriend came with her, as she was too scared to come by herself. Elaina was very serious and stressed. Sr. Betty is thanking God for helping her understand what it is like to work in a pawn shop, so she was calm and able to better understand the situation. Yes, Elaina was hit and had to go to the emergency room, she had police reports so Sr. Betty made all the copies for her, in case she will need them. Also, they were able to find counseling for Elaina, through Catholic Charities close to where she lives.
Through this crisis the owner of the pawn shop closed it down for a week and gave the staff a paid leave to heal over the shock, he was truly concerned for his people. Sr. Betty was also impressed with Elaina’s boyfriend; he truly was her protector at this time. Blessings come in strange ways!
