But nothing is more intense than being homeless.
Our group comes to serve them -- not just to feed them. We cater to them and do our best to encourage them. And we do it because we believe everyone is valuable and everyone deserves dignity. Every.Single.Person. (Many of whom are children.)
But every time I go, they end up lifting me up. They end up teaching me something, giving me reason to smile or laugh and/or reminding me of the importance of humility. They are gracious, kind, thankful and energetic. Upbeat, even. And if anyone has a reason -- or a right -- to be bitter and angry, it's them. But they aren't. Not even the woman who comes through the line and gets seven plates so that she can feed her six kids. Because of their influence, every time I'm there I feel alive and as if I've identified who I am at my core. As if I've come in contact with what's really important. When I am there my heart is the warmest it ever is...
That's reason enough to take stock and give thanks, isn't it? #151.
-Me