The change we want to see in the world...

What is waiting for me in Phoenix?

Since arriving here, at about 5 pm, the people have been inviting, and helpful.  No real problems.  This morning I was asked by a police officer to leave the side lot of Safeway.  (I stayed there last night.)  He noticed that the cart was full of cans, and asked me how I was transporting all of it.

I told him the reason I was traveling and what I was doing in Phoenix, and that the cart has wheels.  I was picking up cans along the side of the road to turn in for cash.  He thought that was a great idea.  Seeing that I was on the side of the road almost all day and walking 25 miles (daily), it made sense.

Then he asked me if I needed to find a homeless shelter, and I told him that I didnt need one.  My cart prevents me from going to certain places, and besides, about everything I own will more than likely be stolen.  I am not going to be here for more than 4 days anyway.  He then asked me if I needed anything, and I said no, and thanked him for his concern.  A great guy.  :)

So, I have opted to stay outside and as far away as I can from the public eye.  I understand how annoying it is to have to see people like me on a daily basis.  I get it, I look homeless, and I am an eyesore.  I know that not all people who are homeless, I call myself "houseless", are just scavengers.  Many would rather get things for free, rather than work for it.

I was raised with the mentality to work for my meals/housing/clothing.  Even if I am not offered a meal AFTER I volunteer, I am not worried because I know that there are soup kitchens out there where I can volunteer, and eat after.  This is where I get together with the people in the long lines and let them know that service to their fellow man is the best form of charity.

Leading by example is not easy, but it is rewarding.  You start to see a change in yourself, and in the community.

I may not be in a certain place for a long time, but I know that the time I do spend with these people will forever be implanted in their minds.  That is what I am looking for.  Not that I, personally, want to be remembered, but the things people can do with their time in the community where they live.

Last year, I was watching a half hour YouTube video.  I asked myself, after it ended, what I could have done instead of watching it.  A half hour is not really a lot of time.  Writing this blog, when I am able to, takes about half an hour due to picture uploads and editing.

What can WE do with a half hour?  Well, I will end with a quote from our late president, John F. Kennedy.

"One person can make a difference, and everyone should try."

If everyone gave a half hour of their time every week, things would change quickly.  We are the force that makes the change in our area.  Dont wait for the other guy to start...