I have always felt a calling on my life, and as the child of two idealistic people they named me Destinee because they felt a woman named after fate itself could be fearless enough to define her own. When I decided to do the Episcopal Service Corps program in Baltimore many people commended my call to service while simultaneously spewing their skewed perceptions of this city. I know what you’re thinking: “Didn’t President Trump call this city a dirty, rat and rodent infested mess?”
Yes, yes he did.
But I came here despite the rumors, because I loved this city even before I was given the privilege to live here. At North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University the most artistic, brilliant, and driven people were from this area. Though this bustling city has its problems (as most major cities do) this city has revived my spirit after a period of transition and loss. I’m in my 20’s , and if you’re too or ever have been you know this decade can kill you. But God has been molding me, and pointed me in this direction.
As the intern at Epiphany Community Center I wear many hats. I work with the church and community center on their family stability program, youth work, and youth ministry. Working with various populations has allowed me to see myself as just one part of the whole body of Christ. I have never felt more connected to my fellow man than I am now. As I help my community, I help myself. As I am compassionate towards my community, I easily extend compassion to myself. As I heal the youth, I heal myself. Often we come into service work thinking we are giving of ourselves, but in reality Baltimore has given me the opportunity to love myself and love my God even more.
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