That was a really encouraging comment to hear. I've been praying that I can be a light and encouragement to people, especially when people seem easily despaired these days.
One of the chances I had to be a light yesterday was at an event through work at the American Legion post for veterans who are homeless or on the verge of homelessness. When I got there in the rain, I wasn't feeling that thrilled. I had my glasses on, and felt tired after being in classes all morning.
For a while I sat at an information table with a guy about my age who seemed a little too interested. I prayed for an opportunity to do something useful. At that point the Legion started putting out fried chicken and lots of warm, yummy, unhealthy food for everyone to have lunch. I saw several veterans get their plates and sit down at a table very quietly, like they didn't want to impose on people.
So I decided exactly what I could do! I grabbed my own plate of fried chicken and carried it over to some old, crusty looking veterans. One was a huge black guy who had just gotten his haircut at the event, and the other guys still hadn't had their hair cut in probably forever. They looked a little surprised that I would sit with them, but I was more surprised that other people weren't sitting with the veterans.
I'm pretty sure I sat there for over an hour and learned a ton about them. I couldn't help but notice their torn clothes, dirty fingers, missing teeth, and sort of unpleasant smell about them. We were sitting so close, and one guy would lightly pat my arm whenever he laughed. My white sweater probably wasn't too happy, but I was extremely content. It was like I could truly feel Jesus' presence there. I mostly just listened to these men, and was struck at how sharp and witty they were.
They told me about their favorite books, where they hang out when it's cold, memories from their childhood, and how they have to move from one food kitchen to another for each meal. One guy, "Charlie," commented how he enjoyed this meal, because he didn't feel like a burden, and he could enjoy his food without feeling rushed. Charlie and I had a good conversation about South America and the meaning of "happiness." He said he was pretty happy, but also he was pretty sure he'd die in the woods someday.
When it was time for me to go, I had to practically tear myself away from the small group that had gathered at our table. I'm pretty sure I'll probably see them around again. It was just an honor to be able to eat and talk with them. They were so extremely kind, and probably just wanted people to talk to them like they're real people, which they certainly are...
In other news, I've been interviewing for jobs and going to fancy dinners. Here's my sophisticated look from a dinner last night. Because it's blurry, you probably can't see the pinstripes on the pants or pretty ruffles around the neck. Gosh, ruffles really don't matter in life, especially after hanging out with my homeless friends. But hopefully I can continue to be a light no matter what situation I might be in--with well-off or down-trodden folks, because Christ loves them all so much!
