Home-less

Last night at a staff holiday party, we discussed spending an entire day at home. We're always going somewhere. A whole day at home sounds like a fabulous goal. I have yet to pick a date, but I look forward to staying at home. During college I had those days more often. I'd hunker down in my dorm, order a pizza, and finish writing a paper. Despite having to do work, I look back on those days fondly.

This morning I walked in the rain to get my haircut. I saw a man sitting on the sidewalk; he told me I needed an umbrella. Not having an umbrella was my choice.

This interaction, however, reminded me of when I first moved to San Diego. I dropped my mom off at the airport and explored the San Diego harbor. I walked 3 miles along the harbor, through seaport village, and around Embarcadero Park. I met a middle-aged man and he invited me to hang out with his friends. They were having a bbq. I joined them. Turns out they were homeless and fed me. It was a very memorable experience from which I feel slightly guilty since homeless people fed me.

After my trim, I saw the same guy in a different area of Old Town. He said my hair looked dry. I explained my haircut. Then he proceeded to chat and share part of his story. He says I never would have thought I'd end up homeless.

I just stood there, listening. What does one say after hearing that the woman he was dating took a lot of his stuff, including his dirty underwear?

Talking to him reminded me of Jesus. I stayed and listened because Jesus would have done that. I often just walk past people asking for money; even if I give them money, I keep going. Standing there listening to this man (I didn't even ask his name), I kept thinking: how can I help him? Should I give him money? I only had increments of 20s in my wallet, so I didn't want to part with one. He didn't ask for money, either. I think listening to him and acknowledging him as a human being was the best way to help. At least I tell myself that, so I can sleep better at night and pretend I'm redeemed.

Walking back to Connery's apartment made me realize how fortunate I am to have friends who will listen to me no matter how pointless or how insightful my message. I also realized how blessed I was to have a house to go home to. I take so many things for granted.

Spending an entire day at home seems more of a luxury than I realized.