Most of us like to run into old friends. I know I do. But yesterday, although it was good seeing people I had met over a year ago, it wrecked me knowing their situation has not changed. Probably even has become worse.
In November of 2008, I was just starting InvisiblePeople.tv. It was maybe my second time out and my first time to Santa Monica that I first met John. What caught my eye was he had several ‘teddy bears’ attached to his cart. I recorded his story yet never posted it to the Internet. Over a year later I regret I cannot find the footage.
John seems like a very kind, gentle person. I do remember he was much happier when we first met. Life on the streets takes its toll on a person. Today John just says he is “so so”.
I know there are many variables in getting someone off the streets. I also know it is never easy. Yesterday I ran into so many people that continue to live without hope of a better life. There must be something we can do in a few years time to get people off the streets.
What do you think?