AGAINST ALL ODDS
Episode 4
Emmanuel followed the kind-faced man, who introduced himself as Pastor John, to a small church in the heart of the city. The church was a humble building, but it was clean and well-maintained, and Emmanuel could sense a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Pastor John led Emmanuel to a small office, where he offered him a seat and a glass of water. Emmanuel drank the water gratefully, feeling a sense of relief wash over him.
“So, my friend,” Pastor John said, “tell me your story. How did you end up on the streets?”
Emmanuel hesitated, unsure of how much to share. But something about Pastor John’s kind eyes put him at ease, and he found himself pouring out his heart, telling the pastor about his journey from the village, his struggles to find work, and his eventual descent into homelessness.
Pastor John listened attentively, nodding his head and making supportive noises. When Emmanuel finished speaking, the pastor smiled and said, “You are not alone, my friend. We are here to help you. We have a program that can provide you with food, shelter, and job training. Would you like to be a part of it?”
Emmanuel’s eyes welled up with tears as he nodded eagerly. For the first time in weeks, he felt a glimmer of hope.
Over the next few days, Emmanuel settled into the church’s program, receiving warm meals, a comfortable bed, and guidance from Pastor John and his team. He also started attending job training sessions, learning new skills and gaining confidence.
Just as things were starting to look up, Emmanuel received a surprise visit from his past. His old friend, Michael, appeared at the church, looking prosperous and successful in his tailored suit and shiny car.
“Emmanuel, my friend,” Michael said, with a wide smile. “I heard you were in the city. I had to come and find you.”
Emmanuel was torn. Part of him was happy to see his old friend, but another part of him was wary. What did Michael want?
They chatted for a while, catching up on old times, and Emmanuel found himself relaxing in Michael’s presence. But when Michael mentioned a job offer, Emmanuel’s guard went up.
“What’s the job?” he asked, his mind racing.
“I’m starting my own business,” Michael said. “A tech firm. And I need someone with your skills to help me get it off the ground.”
Emmanuel was skeptical. Michael had always been ambitious, and Emmanuel wondered if he had an ulterior motive.
“What’s in it for you?” Emmanuel asked, his eyes narrowing.
Michael smiled. “I want to help you, Emmanuel. You’re a talented guy, and I believe in you. Plus, I could use a friend by my side as I build this company.”
Emmanuel hesitated, unsure of what to do. Part of him wanted to trust Michael, but another part of him was wary of getting burned again.
“I don’t know,” he said finally. “I need to think about it.”
Michael nodded. “I understand. But don’t take too long. The offer won’t be on the table forever.”
With that, he stood up and left, leaving Emmanuel to ponder his decision.
As he thought about it, Emmanuel realized that he had a choice to make. He could take a chance on Michael’s offer, or he could stick with Pastor John and the church.
Either way, he knew that his life was about to change in ways he couldn’t imagine.
To be continued……
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Story by Vivi
