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Yesterday, as I rode the bus, there was this ornery man who decided not to get off at the stop he had claimed he was going to get off on. Apparently, the driver knew where he was going, and my suspicion is that he frequently gets on the bus for prolonged periods of time simply to ride. I believe he is homeless.
In any case, the bus driver repeatedly informed him that he was required to have a destination, and he wouldn't offer one. Eventually, after lots of almost indiscernible curse words, he stepped off of the bus.
Later that day, I ended up walking by him three times, and he was in the same place, slumped over, doing nothing on the sidewalk. Kind of puts things into perspective, doesn't it? I mean, if it weren't for Paul, that could be me, except with the exchange of sex for for food, money, and clothing. Thank God for the angels in my life.
At the same time, I really felt bad for him. I wanted to reach out and help him, but not only was it not my place, but I need help myself. Impotent benevolence is maddening...
-Intermission-
Yesterday as I was walking the streets of Milwaukee, The Beatles crept across the screen of my mp3 player. I decided to peruse what I had of their immense catalogue, and up popped "Yellow Submarine." Instantly, a barrage of memories penetrated my thought-scape. But, the most vivid of all is when Jordan and I were walking down Cobb Road to meet Maddie, and Jordan taught me the lyrics to "Yellow Submarine" on the spot so that as Maddie came within an audible distance we would sing the song at the top of our lungs. Maddie, Jordan, I miss these days. I'm so glad you're in Brazil, Maddie, and I'm stoked that you'll be going to UW-Platteville, Jordan, but baby I'ma miss y'all.
-Fin-
"I wanted to reach out and help him, but not only was it not my place, but I need help myself."
ReplyDeletesometimes when we're broken and struggling ourselves is the best time to help others. it does amazing things for your soul to give with all you have...