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TITLE: Help Wanted | Previous Challenge Entry
By Gloria Turowski
07/30/26
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The scratchy sling’s fabric left my armpits red and raw; the uncomfortable cloth irritated my entire arm. I had to wear the contraption and a cast for four weeks, leaving my arm standing awkwardly at attention. I had plunged down my porch steps, landing on the pavement, unable to stand. My right wrist snapped with a crack, resulting in three fractures. After new X-rays were completed, Dr. Hamilton was set to re-evaluate. I hoped the torture device would be removed.

I was not ambidextrous. Cleaning, eating, changing clothes, and even washing my hair with only my left hand required a Herculean effort. Empty Chinese and Mexican takeout boxes were scattered across the kitchen table. Books were piled on the couch. The hardwoods were oozing dust. The dishes were packed in the sink. For comfort, I resorted to wearing a bright orange-and-pink muumuu. I hadn’t changed in a week, and it was vital that Tide penetrate the cotton.

My sister, Candace, came to check on me once a week, bringing a home-cooked meal. With three kids, all under three, she could only stay an hour. I’m not a complainer, but I needed as much attention as the babies.

As the phone rang, I struggled to cross the room, my injury slowing my pace.

“Hi, is this Margie?” A loud voice boomed through the phone.

“Yes. Yes. May I help you?”

I held the receiver away from my ear. “My name is Prudence May, and I attend your sister’s church, Saint John, here in Richmond. I’m with the Women’s Outreach Ministry. Candace told me about your dilemma. I’d like to help, along with other members of the organization. We provide daily meals, house cleaning, and assistance with personal hygiene—plus any other chores you require. Our members rotate, coming to your house Monday through Friday. We are eager to help since you are homebound.”

I was surprised she wasn’t out of breath. “What a blessing. I’ve been struggling with everyday tasks, and your help would be appreciated. Both my physical and mental well-being are in dire need of relaxation.”

“We'd like to ask whether you’d be willing to let us share a devotion with you twice a week. God’s commandment to show love and devotion to one another is part of our ministry.”

“A devotional sounds fantastic.” I’d been neglecting my Bible and devotionals since the accident, spending more time whining about my injury than thanking God that I didn’t break my neck. “I welcome any ministry you ladies have to offer.”

After a quick goodbye, I stared at the disarray, humbled and blessed by God’s loving hand. I remembered His message from the Last Supper. “A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34 NIV). In 1st Corinthians 13:4, love is described as patient and kind—these ladies were embodying God’s ultimate commandment by displaying those exact qualities to me.

I called my sister to thank her for telling Prudence May about my needs. She had also demonstrated love by suggesting that the group help me. I couldn’t wait to meet the members of the Women’s Outreach Ministry and perhaps return the love they would show me.

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