I was deeply pondering the above quote the other day. As is often the case, this led to me being given the chance to put thought into action.
While out making my rounds, I encountered Anna — one of my long-term regulars whom I’ve discussed many times here. I also saw one of the few men on my list (so far). His name is Kenny. He’s homeless, maybe late 50s, and he appears to have cerebral palsy.
In each encounter, I was greeted warmly. Anna wanted to talk about her recent experiences at church and she knew I’d be happy to oblige and validate her sharing. Since Anna is Greek, I also urged her to check out a particularly magnificent Greek Orthodox Church near her panhandling spot.
Kenny first wanted to show me that he was wearing the winter boots I got him. They fit perfectly! He also felt the need to talk with me about his grandmother who raised him and how, even though she’s gone for 33 years, he thinks about her every day. Kenny’s words struck a chord within me and deepened our connection.
This project has gifted me with so many moments like this. Thanks to your support, I get to bring another quote to life. The brilliant poet Mary Oliver once wrote: “To pay attention, this is our endless and proper work.”
I’m here today to remind you to do your endless and proper work by granting others the rarest and purest form of generosity — your attention — as often as possible.
This is an especially important time of year for supporting the most vulnerable among us. On top of that, my goal in 2024 is to expand my mission to help FAR more people in FAR bigger ways. I can only do this with the support of generous souls like you.
I could really use your assistance…
Here are the best ways to keep my 7-years-and-counting project going and growing:
Make a direct donation right here.
Order items from my wishlist here.
Commit to a monthly pledge at Patreon here.
To keep things simple, click here and donate whatever feels right for you!
No matter what, please spread the word by sharing the above links far and wide! Thank you, as always, for your kind and generous support. And if you cross paths with a homeless woman or any vulnerable soul, remember to be friendly and compassionate.
The good NGOs struggle to provide that human touch. Material needs matter greatly, but without someone who cares—someone who can offer friendly compassion at every encounter—the small miracles don't happen.
Struggling people don't fight overwhelming odds under the banner of favourable metrics. They do it because they have souls and someone sees that, and cares.
I’m on it! Love hearing about Kenny!