I continue to walk the streets and see them filled with people who need sanctuary. A man I chatted with today was wrapped so tightly that almost no flesh was visible. He said the dampness was getting into his bones. Yesterday a woman told me she was despairing, she couldn't make it without help; she'd surely be a failure if someone didn't do something.
She wasn't sure what the something was. I had two dollars and that was a piece of something. But I know it was a two dollar bandaid. She was also wrapped in layers, damp layers, and she had no place to keep dry. She gave a cheery conversation though and wanted to know how I was... I told her I was ok. We lied happily to each other about the weather... and I thought about what it might be if she belonged somewhere safe. and warm.
But she doesn't. And so we must work toward social change in any way we can so that she can have a secure future and present. Her ability to determine her present is limited by indifference.
The picture I would have taken shows a woman of about 50. She has not brushed her hair and her smile is broad. She is lively right now but the next time I pass by her she does not look up. Her body is bound inward against the cold.
