# @hopewdm on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/B7Hs1CeAvDq
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/16338782-hopewdm-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/thumbnails/d9c060ff18.jpg
- **Posted:** 2020-01-10T01:14:54.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** HOPE (@HopeWDM) — https://gondola.cc/HopeWDM

## Caption

My first time working at Hope was Christmas Eve years ago. We were standing on Ashworth Road assisting people entering and exiting the parking lot. Due to the freezing temperatures, I never imagined traffic would still come most of the day. I never imagined people would start showing up an hour and half early. I was amazed by the sheer amount of people arriving for church. Did I mention it was freezing out? No one seemed to care. They were just happy and wanting to be at Hope! There was something about this place.⁣
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In 2016, it started to seem like many negative events in the world were influencing the way people looked at law enforcement. Many of these events were occurring far from Iowa, but they were having an impact on everyone through social media.⁣
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In early November 2016, a tragic event occurred in the Des Moines area. Two police officers lost their lives, and it affected everyone. I was working at Hope on a Saturday night. Pastor Mike was preaching, and I heard him talking about the tragic events and the effects their untimely deaths had, not only on law enforcement officers, but on the public in general. He talked about what law enforcement meant to him and the impact it has. After the service, as people were exiting the Worship Center, I noticed they were making a beeline toward where I was standing. I have never been a real touchy person, especially when wearing a newly pressed uniform. I positioned myself behind the center kiosk, thinking I could shake anyone’s hands that were extended my way. I was so wrong. I ended up not only shaking hands, but I think I hugged 90% of the people that evening. People were in line waiting to say thank you to me, a representative for all law enforcement in and around the Des Moines metro. That day changed me.⁣
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I have realized that Hope is home to many, and for many, Hope is their family. I’m proud to be part of this family. I look forward to continuing to watch Hope grow, and I realize that Hope is a special place that I also call home and family! Much respect to everyone at Hope. I appreciate you!⁣
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#PiecesFromHope⁣
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Jason H.⁣
WDM Senior Police Officer/Detective⁣
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(Full story found on our Facebook page)

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## Tags

piecesfromhope

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