A Family

He used to come on a regular basis but lately it is only been now and then. I always recognize him from a distance by his infectious smile, even though, he is constantly searching the room like he is looking for someone. I guess on the street there are certain individuals that you want to avoid and others you want to find, especially if they have done you wrong. But I like to see him because he makes me smile and feel like neither of us have any problems.

He is white and his lady friend is black and they live in a tent. In the South at one time this kind of relationship would have been impossible even on the street. Fortunately now, those days have passed and most could care less. He once told me that he had given up on his relatives many years ago and the only one that might even talk to him was a sister. Once I tried to encourage him to contact her but he sighed and said it was too late. Even when his lady friend left him a few years ago, he would not consider contacting anyone. He has a family now and a place to live and just can not revisit the past.

We see many every week that have experienced pain and seek a new life on the street. In this economy there are those loosing their jobs and homes and could very well end up on the street. All of us are vulnerable and should be thankful to give a helping hand because one day we may need one too.

There was a large crowd tonight. When everyone lined up to eat, I counted 85 people but by the end of the night we had served over 100 hot meals. Thanks to all the volunteers who find joy in serving the homeless each week.
~Marc