Aaron Kinyon
I have been here in the Portland L’Arche community since October 2009, but my journey here spans my lifetime. Somewhere along my way I began to consciously search for a place where my “unique gifts and challenges” would be “welcome.” Over the years I journeyed to a lot of different cities and entered into many relationships with groups and individuals in pursuit of a spot where I felt I belonged. Eventually I serendipitously (I love that word and its meaning!) found my way to Portland and the wonderful people I am living alongside today.
The mysterious twist in all this still amazes me every day. Where my life journey led me (in spite of my often-poor navigation, I must add) was not so much to a place, but more in a direction. Whereas before I was looking for welcome and acceptance, today I seek to offer it. What I’ve learned and what L’Arche Portland gives me every day is an opportunity to welcome and accept others.
The miracle in this cannot be overstated. In moving out from my self, in welcoming and accepting others, and in loving people in a very practical way, I discover that I am welcome and belong already. In essence, I am accepted fundamentally just as I am, wherever I am.
L’Arche is a place. For me it is also a direction. Henri Nouwen describes this direction as “reaching out.” I recommend we move this way together.
Aaron Kinyon is a current assistant at Neahkahnie House.