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My Move-in Night

Editor’s Note: In his first FMS blog post, DCSC volunteer Grant Diego recounts his first night at Casa San Salvador, which involved a humorous turn of events!

I am someone who loves surprises! The thrill of not knowing what to expect always gets me excited. I think I enjoy that because it makes life seem not as strict or straightforward as the way most people tell you to treat it. Luckily, my move-in night to Casa San Salvador was exactly that. That night would be the memory engraved into the minds of two other people, along with myself.

Now you’re probably wondering what in the world am I talking about… Well, it all started when three strangers wanted to go out for some dinner. It was the first time we were all meeting, and luckily, after we moved all our luggage and boxes, we were hungry. We all walked to a nearby pub where we were able to talk and get acquainted with one another. Everything was going swell, up until we decided to walk back to the house.

The night took a drastic turn when we got back and found the only door to get back in…was locked. When I was thinking about everything that could go wrong, especially dealing with the first night I would meet some of my roommates for the next eleven and a half months, getting locked out of the house was definitely not one of the issues that came to mind. We were knocking and shouting for someone in the house to answer and open up the door. Unfortunately, it was just our luck that it was late at night and everyone was sound asleep. Then comes the cavalry!

We were lucky enough to get picked up by Rose to gather things we would need to have a good night’s rest, and then be graciously hosted at Meghan’s home. It truly was a night like no other. When all seemed hopeless and for a moment we were preparing to “camp” outside the Casa, those two came and saved the day!

Now, if that isn’t a good surprise, I’m not sure what is! We could have easily been mad and frustrated about the whole incident, but we chose to accept it and turn it into a funny story, one that we reference quite a bit around the house. Surprises are funny like that. They give you the opportunity to choose how you want to remember a certain memory. Will it be one you regret and associate negative feelings towards, or will you enjoy the fact that so much laughter, bonding, and many many stories came out of that one event. That night ended on a high note and I would like to think that was the beginning and foundation of our community.

Question for Reflection: When were you surprised by an unexpected change of plans?

Posted On: September 25, 2024/Community, DC Service Corps

Tagged in:

DC Service Corps, Casa San Salvador, Community

Grant Diego

Originally from Guam, USA, I am thrilled to be a part of the DC Service Corps, where I serve as a Programs & Recruitment Associate in the FMS office. My role involves assisting with various administrative tasks related to the lay mission program, including recruitment, discernment retreats, formation courses, and supporting international lay missioners. I graduated from Chaminade University of Honolulu with a major in International Business and double minors in Psychology and Marketing. My passion for service led me to join FMS, as I am deeply committed to helping those in need. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, snowboarding, and playing basketball—basically, anything that gets me outdoors. During my time with FMS, I am eager to embrace new cultures, engage in intentional community, and deepen my spiritual growth.