I did something this weekend that I’m not proud of. Something that has really made me question my motives, my priorities and my place in life. I really didn’t want to share this because I wish I could have said that I “did something” about it. But the fact is, I just walked away. When faced with a similar situation again, I want the outcome to be different.
What happened? Well, a friend was playing a gig in downtown Nashville and I was in a hurry to get there. I had worked a long day and was really worn out. It was really cold outside (about 15F) and I had left my jacket at work. A little irritated that I had to park up on the 4th level, I quickly headed for the elevator. That was when it happened.
I saw a homeless man trying to sleep in a parking garage elevator. Shocked, I mumbled, “sorry” and then walked away.
Two other friends were with me and as we were walking down the stairs one of the girls said that as soon as she starts making enough money to give some away, she’s gonna start going to McDonald’s and buy gift certificates and start handing them out to the homeless. Although this is a noble thought…I couldn’t help but think, “what about now?” What could I have done for the man? I didn’t have any cash on me. I didn’t even have my jacket with me. Nothing but my debit card and ID.
I have worked with homeless shelters in Atlanta and San Antonio. I have done “organized” aid. But I haven’t had this type of encounter here in Nashville. This was real. This was raw. This is life. I want to do something about it.
Anne Jackson (@flowerdust) sent out a tweet Thursday that said her church (Cross Point Church) was going to pass out blankets to the homeless in Nashville because it was going to get so cold. I wanted to go. Unfortunately, I had meetings and couldn’t help out. This experience Friday night has been a good kick in the butt for me to get active. I’m going to contact her and ask what I can do to help.
The next time I run into someone who is without a place to live, I want to be able to help. Even if it’s something small. I have been blessed with so much! I’m not rich, but the least I can do is buy a meal or a blanket for someone in need.
What about you? Have you had a similar experience? What did you do? Any suggestions for what I can do? I would love to hear your thoughts!
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Way to be honest! Sadly I did something very similar on that same day! I saw Anne’s tweet and thought to myself “that’s so rad, to bad I’m at work.” Then on the way home I drive right past the guy on the corner holding a sign. The whole time following that I wanted to kick myself.
I really like the idea of McDonalds gift certs
Hey sweetie-I know when things like this “get in our face” that it STIRS AND SPURS US and that’s a GOOD thing. Love “speaks” with ACTION. Sometimes we get in a wad that we have to SAY something when the NEED is greater than any words at the moment. Clean blankets, hats, mittens, bundled together with food gift certificates could do the SUBLIME. Despise NOT the “seemingly” small beginnings. One step at a time, one step at a time. YOU GO, GIRL!