I returned to the park tonight after being away for 2 weeks. I felt such a warm welcome back from my friends who wondered where I'd been and instead of being upset because they didn't make it to my priority list. They were just excited I was back. Lawrence found a girl to cut my hair which is such a relief because I've been needing to get it cut for weeks! He said "I found someone who cuts white girl's hair. . . I mean, not that you are a girl, but. . ." I just laughed because he saw nothing wrong with calling me white but thought I might be offended that he called me a girl. She does indeed cut hair but she didn't have scissors so her friend ran (literally) to CVS, bought a cheap pair of blunt edge scissors and ran back so she'd have an opportunity to make a dollar or two. At that point I was already committed, after all, it's just hair. She did a good job considering the circumstances and I do feel a lot lighter now.
Then I wandered over to the chess court and enjoyed a conversation with Stan. This felt like a real breakthrough because Stan has up until this point, been very hesitant with me; almost paranoid. Tonight he opened up about his life, his circumstances and how he makes it through each day. I was really inspired as he shared that we may not always be in the situations we want to be but as long as our needs are provided for and we know the One who provides for our needs then there is no need in worrying. Stan has a house but he cannot afford utilities or upkeep so he continues to pay the taxes on it hoping one day things will turn around for him. He said "It's different to reach a point you can afford things and to maintain that place, I've had enough money to live in my house before but my income was not stable enough to maintain it." "No matter how much or how little you have, you still have to learn to manage it well" he continued.
I also met a new friend, Ron. He came by and got hot chocolate from us last night as we served outside of the Gateway shelter. I look forward to getting to know him more in the future.
Leon was back in the park tonight, he's been gone for over 3 weeks. He got a job and hasn't had time to hang out which is really good as he has the potential to find trouble.
I was asked out by a girl tonight too, she offered to buy me a beer along with a few other things. I don't usually hang out in this particular area in the park but it happened to be where my hair stylist was set up. I had been warned by my friends to stay away from that side, now I know why.
BK was grateful for the chapstick he'd requested and shared with me his goals. Goals are so important for survival on the street. They are carried by hope. I enjoyed listening to him share his plan for his life.
Sam and Sparrow were missing from the park tonight. I hope it's because they are in a shelter, dry and warm.
I also met a new merchant who is set up in these new fancy vendor facilities. Sunny is from Pakistan, he's only been in the States for a year and 6 months. He gave me a beanie because he could tell my ears were cold.
Every time I return after a few days away I think to myself "What in my life is so important to keep me away from here?" I love this place and I love my friends. I really do miss them when I'm not around the park.
