I was having a real lousy day which resulted in me being sour and unapproachable because I couldn’t get an important document processed and to make matters worse my hair dresser was nowhere to be found! In the end, out of desperation I decided to walk into the first salon that I saw. -2 Hours later I was HAPPY Toya! (I told you … clean hair = happy me!) With that complete I was on to my next assignment with the intention of getting home before midday.
As I was walking I passed one of the many homeless persons who have taken over the sidewalks standing outside of a food place. It looked like ‘Mad Man Terry’ [the first 'street person' I'd ever met] but it didn’t at the same time. He looked tired, sad, hungry, depressed, dirty, distressed and I was almost sure he was about to pass out. He didn’t beg me for money or even seem to notice me but I felt horrible and started tearing up. I realized that I would never be able to live with myself if I continued on my way so I turned around and bought a patty and drink for him. He nodded I guess; not really sure what happened after I walked off, still wiping my eyes (damn hormones), not wanting to make a scene. There I was fussing about my hair being dirty etc. when there are people out there worse off. True clarity is always gained when you take a step back.
Recently I’ve noticed that there are far more ‘mad-people’ roaming the town than usual. The one legged anti-social who’s infamous for spitting at people, ‘mad man Terry' and the old lady who has a ‘home’ in a tree near the police station and dances around with her radio have been joined by one who calls people ‘Daddy’, this guy who has a ‘spot’ right beside the steps of the police station and another who ‘stalked’ my aunt recently for $10.00 jm. We pass them often; some cross the road to avoid them all together.
It pains me to see them. I often wonder what their stories are, how they got to that point and where their families are. I used to give money when they asked until one day (when i really didn’t have anything on me) I got a good and proper cuss out from one who was ever so polite till I denied him. I’d let that experience make it bad for the genuinely needy (Yea some just want to fuel their drug obsession).
I can't deny that some have brought this situation on themselves but should I, should we, really hold it against them?