I learn so many things about life on the streets each time I hang out with my friends. Yesterday Sparrow explained which areas that I should avoid and why. It was very informative. Today after church I spent the afternoon improving my game. Several groups came out with sandwiches and drinks. The second group brought hamburgers from Mc Donald's. I stood in line to get one for some of the guys in the middle of a game. The girl hesitated and wouldn't give it to me. I'm not going to talk about how I feel about this in this blog but the same thing happened 2 other times today. The story I do want to share is the reaction of one guy when I went to get him a sandwich.
Some guys parked a van parked on the street and handed out sandwhiches. My friend LJ and another guy were in the middle of an intense game so I asked them if I could go get a sandwich and some water for them. They said yes. After returning with the food the other guy playing asked "Why did you get me a sandwich?" This is the conversation that followed.
Me: "You said you wanted one didn't you?" The other chess player: "Yes, but I mean, why would you ask me if I wanted a sandwich and then go and get it for me? In this day and age you just don't see things like that."
Me: "I saw you were in the middle of a good game and wouldn't leave the table but may still want something to eat."
Him: "Ok, ok, you aren't understanding what I'm asking. Do you read the Bible?"
Me: "Yes, I do."
Him: "Tell me something about yourself. Something about your religious self."
Me: "Well, when I read the Bible I see that Jesus hung out with people, fed them and loved them. He is the best example I have of displaying God's love so I hang out with people and love them. I also read that Jesus was a servant. If I am trying to be more like him, I should also serve. The Bible talks a lot about serving."
Him: "Thank you. Now I know who you are." He walked off. I hollered "But you don't even know my name."
He said "What you just told me tells me much more about who you are than what your name is but my name is Lee, what is your name?"
Something else I learned is that it's feast or famine in the park. On Sundays droves of people bring food. During the week they search through the trash cans. Another thing I knew but was reminded of today: Just because you don't have somewhere to live doesn't mean that you don't have preferences. Some people just don't like mustard on a sandwich or would prefer their water cold. Beggars can't be choosers so they take what is given, but if you show up with a hot meal or a cold drink it's possibly you'll be tackled with a crowd of grateful people.
