Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2008/04/03
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]For a number of years I and a friend distributed coats, sweaters, blankets, sandwiches and hot beverages to people on the street during the coldest days of winter. No cameras. The most profound encounter I had while doing that occurred when a fellow said to us, "I don't need none of that shit. I know how to get warm clothes. What I need is for you two to talk to me. Not walk away thinking you done me a favor with your old clothes and weak coffee." We spent an hour with the man under a freeway bridge. He seemed extremely intelligent; well educated; philosophical; chose the street because he didn't want any of the "bullshit" that his employers, family and friends put him through (don't know exactly what that meant - but I think we've all known the feeling at one time or another). Of course he also manifested symptoms of anti-social behavior and other psychological issues. He obviously hungered for the one thing he couldn't easily fend for himself - enough respect from people to share a "real" conversation. In our area we also had a football star who became a local TV sports reporter before developing schizophrenia. He disappeared for a couple years to the streets before his family finally was able to find him and get him on treatment. Homelessness can come to any of us, or our family members, for many different causes. A number of my friends have stood at the edge and just missed falling off. As a life time self employed person - I've always felt dangerously close to the possibility - which is where a lot of my "compassion" comes from. Fond regards, George george@imagist.com www.imagist.com http://www.imagist.com/blog Picture A Week - www.imagist.com/paw_07 On Apr 3, 2008, at 4:56 PM, Tina Manley wrote: > The important part is to have the desire to alleviate the > suffering. And then to do something.