Don’t We All. . .
Once when I was downtown I was sitting in my car waiting for a photography studio to open up
Coming my way from across the parking lot was what most would consider a bum. From the looks of him, he had no car, no home, no clean clothes, and no money. As he approached I thought to myself, he’s coming to ask me for money. He didn’t. He came and sat on the curb in front of the bus stop and just looked at me. After a few minutes he spoke. That’s a very pretty car, he said. I said, thanks, and continued waiting. He sat there quietly along side me. The expected plea for money never came.
As the silence between us widened something inside me said, ask him if he needs any help. I was sure that he would say yes. Do you need any help? I asked. He answered in three simple words that for some reason became quite profound. Don’t we all?
We often look for wisdom in great men and women. We expect it from those of higher learning and accomplishments. I expected nothing but an outstretched grimy hand, instead I receive a priceless lesson. I reached in my bag and gave him not only enough for bus fare, but enough to get a warm meal and shelter for the day.
We all need help. Maybe not for bus fare or a place to sleep, but we all need help. No matter how little we feel, no matter how loaded down we are with problems, we can be of help, even if it’s just a compliment. You never know when you may see someone that appears to have it all. They may be waiting on you to give them what they don’t have. A different perspective on life, a glimpse at something beautiful, a respite from daily chaos, that only you through your eyes can see.
Maybe the man was just a homeless stranger wandering the streets. Maybe he saw me as someone who needed a little help in the way of a gentle reminder. All I can think now is: Don’t we all?
Peace and Love, Jim
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