Dear Anonymous,
Homeless Vet. USMC. Sleeping on the bricks. Portland, Maine. He came over today to introduce himself after I delivered a Dear Anonymous sleeping bag and heavy Carhartt sweatshirt a couple days ago. He opens his coat to reveal the sweatshirt, lifting his face to mine with a smile when I don't at first recognize him. He knew I would remember that sweatshirt. And then I put it all together, hug him and it feels like we are old friends.
I don't know his life or exactly how he arrived here on the bricks. He stands and offers permission to photograph...and I remember the hat. It is a beautiful hand knit hat from one of you amazing knitters that have supplied knitted hats, scarves and mittens. He loves it. Thank you.
Others stop by. There is endless need. Blankets. Sleeping bags. Hooded sweatshirts. Durable pants. Thermal layers. Endless need. Endless difficulties.
One lovely man I nickname The Rose Man, is 4 days without drinking. He is starting to feel better, he says. He is meeting with his caseworker trying to figure out how to get the $800.00 rent for a room and the $200.00 additional fee negotiated. Hope upon hope. He is trying and it is perilous. And fragile. He waits for a bed in detox. 'Four days,' he says with a smile, ‘I made it fours days. I'm startin' to feel better...' Oh.My.Heart. Semper fi.