Homeless People

A few days ago, on Friday, I saw another homeless man next to the Chipotle I always visit. Yes, it was the same location as my previous post. However, this was a younger looking man that I've never seen. Still left with some "buy one get one free" burrito coupons (my last one), I asked the guy if I could get him some food; he looked so surprised and happy at my offer, and of course, accepted.

So I go in and order some food and come back out handing it to him. I tried to get to know him a bit. The only things I specifically remember is that:

• His name is EJ.
• He's been unemployed for 5 years. Before that, he was living with his dad and had a job until his father passed away. (I'm assuming he went through some dark times after that and lost his job through all the things happening).
• He came down to Austin to live his mom and get back up on his feet and start looking for a job.

EJ was so excited to talk to me and was telling me all this. I only asked a few questions, and he willingly shared the rest about himself on his own. Showing me all his job applications and talking about how he tries to keep well groomed to get a job, EJ was so motivated and passionate. He continued to talk about how he's never done drugs and how he's really trying to get on his feet and start again. It felt as if he was trying to let me know that he's not a bad person and that he's different from the sterotypical homeless alcoholic/druggie. But who am I to judge him? I'm just as bad as him. I make mistakes. I make bad decisions at times. I was humbled at that moment.

So as usual, I asked if I could pray for him. He just asked that I pray for him to get back on his feet and find a job; so I prayed for him. Whether he believes in God or not, I just wanted to show some of the love and kindness that was shown to me through Jesus.

After the prayer, I left, and he continued to thank me as I walked in the other direction. This really opened my eyes how everyone has their own story. A few people may have made bad choices to fall into a rut and become homeless and don't regret it. However, I'm sure many didn't choose to be homeless or want to be.

And just a few days later, this video went viral on youtube. It really confirmed on what I thought homeless people felt when they were neglected. They're imperfect people just like you and me. I'm not saying to go out and start giving out all your money to these people. But just be thankful for what you have and try show some compassion towards everyone.