I Am Homeless, But I Help The Homeless!

Homelessness, and the images associated with it are visible throughout our cities, towns, social media...There is no escape, and no matter the efforts being made to decrease this issue, the need for assistance and resources for many cannot be met at a fast enough pace. Many question why there is no simple solution, and claim to have an understanding of causes that are contributing to the elevated increase in cases. However, when it comes to this subject there is no one size fits all explanation, or solution. In fact, grasping the opinion of believing we understand how an individual living in homelessness is feeling is one of the last things we should be doing. Some realize they are in a difficult predicament, but have chosen to pull positivity from the situation as I was recently reminded.

"Tom," is an individual I met at a local resource program a couple of years prior. We often have friendly exchanges about local occurrences, and varied topics. Much conversation about families doesn't happen. I have learned within the homeless community those that you meet along the way, and share shelter with become your family. There is a sense of love, and commitment within these surroundings that cannot be surpassed. To hear stories shared about each other, amongst the group is a beautiful event. I have felt fortunate through the years to bear witness to what was meant by these stories. Pure, unconditional love. When accomplishments are made, I often hear the news, and clap with joy as well.

An event allowed Tom and I to share an exchange that gave me a different perceptive on how situations in homelessness could be viewed. Through the years, I knew he took pride in all the things he had been able to do with his hands. In fact, it appeared that he once had a career that involved building with his hands almost daily. I never inquired further, because I felt it was important for people to feel safe, unjudged, and accepted in their willingness to be open about what they chose. On this day, it was a celebration as he discussed a spot that he had been parking his car in for the past two years to sleep. There was no sign of anger or complaints about being homeless. He was just happy to have the roof of his car over his head each night to protect him from the elements. I listened intently, as he continued on. His face lit up like I had never seen before. " I have managed to do something incredible, and I am so excited," He continued. " I have managed to buy another car. It is not much, but it is mine," he exclaimed. Unsure of what this all meant for him I listened as he explained. Suddenly, I understood his excitement.

The purchase of the second car meant that he had another spot he could let friends sleep. Being homeless means being a nomad, and if you land at a spot that has no space you are often out of luck. Now, he had a rest spot he could offer. Another visitor explained that he had slept in the vehicle for a couple of days and was relieved to be there. I felt emotional as I continued listening.

Not having much, but willing to share what he had gave him pride. As he took his plate and found a comfortable spot to sit, he looked over his shoulder and said "I am homeless, but I help the homeless. Bless you, thank you for what you do, and have a good evening."

"I knew in that moment, I would look at things a little differently moving forward. People are in homeless situations for a variety of reasons including: job loss, divorce, mental issues, drugs...but we should not judge. Things can change in a moments notice, and any of us could experience difficulties. However, on this day I was reminded that there is joy is the small accomplishments. There is always positivity present if you choose to seek it, and there is goodness to share from the hearts of many whether homeless or not.