I have a memory from when I was eight, buying this second hand soft cushy blanket from a thrift store with my mom. I was so excited to go home and curl up in it. We passed a man sleeping on the streets in Vancouver and she stopped and put the blanket beside him. It was rainy and dark, I dont remember his face, but I remember being confused and angry at first that we had given away something I wanted. She calmly told me he needed more than us. At this point in my childhood I was being raised solely by the support of my mother, and we were broke. Today after dinner we went to Donalds to get some groceries and a man was begging at the corner. I often feel overwhelmed with all the homeless people in Vancouver, and today I wanted to dodge his eyes and need. Ive no issue buying homeless people meals or slipping them a fiver. Hell Ive bought a man a steak dinner once at request. But since leaping into my art out west I havent had such a financial cushion to support me. Its the first time in my life I am hesitant to open my pockets to people on the streets. As I veered away uncomfortably, my mother veered towards him. She leaned down and asked him if he would like anything from the store. He asked for a sandwich. She asked what kind and he requested a loaf of bread and some spam. When we dropped it off he held her softly in his eyes and said thank you. I felt my heart quiver at the sweetness of it. We walked away and talked about what I first learned seventeen years ago--the importance of taking care of each other. I am so grateful to have a lifetime to walk this planet beside a woman that effortlessly radiates compassion. I love you Lou
Posted on: Fri, 18 Jul 2014 02:24:05 +0000
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