And you'll hear stories about one man, who is deeply familiar with these streets helping a couple new to the streets.

 
88986526_10157198557691947_7380470104934318080_o.jpg

Dear Anonymous,

And you'll hear stories about one man, who is deeply familiar with these streets helping a couple new to the streets. The couple who were dismissed from the shelter, for whatever reason. He shows them the warmer spots to sleep. He panhandles enough money to take care of all of them last night.
The couple looks dazed. A bit besides themselves.
The sun is coming up. Hot coffee helps.

 

It's a little bit like Filene's Basement on the sidewalks some mornings with clothing flying in and out of bins.

 
88973391_10157198320391947_2676543126885105664_o.jpg

Dear Anonymous,
It's a little bit like Filene's Basement on the sidewalks some mornings with clothing flying in and out of bins. Trying to find something that fits this 3XL guy and then a snug enough hoodie for this Medium guy. Sometimes it works; sometimes it doesn't. The socks were depleted today. No hand warmers available, or gloves ,or mittens. Things come and go rapid fire. They are always disappointed when the homemade coffee cake is gone. And it is always gone sooner than some arrive.
A hot cup of coffee remains the standard request. As are socks.
This is Todd. Todd has given me permission to photograph him for years. He astounded me years ago when he remembered my name (I am terrible at remembering names) and greeted me on the street the day he left the hospital after spinal surgery.
Today he has a smile. I cautiously share that he tells me he might have garnered housing. Maybe. All fingers crossed and everything else that can cross.He seemed enthusiastic and appreciative of his caseworkers.
He tells me he's been on the street for the better part of 10 years.

 

Just about everyone in this circle has hit a bottom. Some have hit it many times.

 
88005858_1487742364722772_4801510245627068416_o.jpg

Just about everyone in this circle has hit a bottom. Some have hit it many times. Everyone in this circle knows what it is to be the one who's messed up. Screwed up. Crashed. The one who lost most everything....including trust and respect. To see someone take the opportunity to build a life again putting the bricks back in a new position inspires. It inspires others who think or feel it can't be done. Who may feel it's too late. Or it's too much.
Never. And in this circle look around. Others suffer. Others are trying. Others will succeed. Others will fall and come back. Get to know them as yourself. Someone trying.