This guest blog is written by Alisha L Garza, a Volunteer Coordinator in our DuPage Office
To be human is to experience a variety of emotions—often conflicting ones. Like a woman in childbirth, there is the striking reality of pain and joy. Even Jesus was called the Man of Sorrows (Isaiah 53:3), while the author of Hebrews describes Him as “…anointed with the oil of gladness more than all His companions” (Hebrews 1:8-9). How did He live so beautifully present in the tension? And how do we, His people, cling to hope and press through life’s barrage of obstacles? I’d like to introduce you to my friend, and World Relief volunteer, Nick Shargo.
I had the honor of first meeting Nick when he came into the office for friendship partner training. Genuine and instantly likable, we shook hands and dove into easy conversation. While sharing a bit of his story, he revealed that he lost Ruth, his beloved wife of 47 years, to Alzheimer’s in 2019. An undeniable, deep love resonated in his tone.
“It was a gradual decline,” he commented. First, there was a car accident. Then, one summer while vacationing, she got lost on the campgrounds. After she fell down the stairs in their home, it became apparent Ruth was going to need a full-time caregiver. Nick assumed this role gladly. He fed, bathed, and remained an anchor for her amid profound change. He reminisced with tears how he knew she was near the end when she stopped smiling:
“The Lord gave me strength to care for Ruth until she passed away. She was my ministry.”
Fast forward five years to the present. His church, Heritage Presbyterian, began exploring partnership with World Relief as a way to live out God’s mission/love in their community. He was intrigued.
“Truly, it was a step in faith,” he said. “What would my role be, and would I be able to fulfill it?”
Nick was paired with a family of three from Afghanistan: a husband, wife, and their 3-year-old daughter.
“…Being able to stand beside them as they adjust and ultimately thrive in the U.S. is a true blessing.”
Nick has undeniably embraced his new role with incredible fervor, recently being recognized as “Rookie of the Year” at Chicagoland’s volunteer appreciation night. When asked what motivates him in this current season while navigating new challenges, he reflected thoughtfully:
“My sense of family, my grandkids, becoming a friendship partner… I don’t know how much time I have left, but I’ll keep going where the Spirit illuminates the path.”
Once again, Nick has proved to be an anchor for others amidst profound change.
Despite loss, grief, and discouragement, hope is alive. Its evidence is on display in the extraordinary, ordinary lives of people like Nick. May his story inspire you to keep showing up with your two fish and five loaves. In the right hands, who knows what could happen?
“…I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope He has given to those He called—His holy people who are His rich and glorious inheritance. I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe Him…”
– Ephesians 1:18-19