Back to photostream

Kenny - Stranger # 291/300

He was standing om SE Hawthorne Blvd, next to the neighborly grocery market, holding a bunch of newspapers and kindly greeting everyone. "Hello, how are you today?"

I bought the newspaper for a dollar and introduced myself.

"We buy the paper for 25 cents and with the profit we help the homeless people. You can have more information in here," he said with a friendly smile handing me a copy of 'Street roots'.

"Are you homeless?" I asked concerned, although somehow, I didn't think he was.

"Oh no, I live in Salem," Kenny replied and I felt relieved, "it's only a 45 minute drive. I do it with my Honda, it's pretty good on low gas.

- This is a part time job, I want to be involved in helping. I get a chance to talk to people and I like it.

I work at Nike and I study political science, too. I am interested in mechanics as well, I am going to take a course..."

"You are a very busy man, Kenny, but may I take your picture?

"Sure you may!"

I showed him the pictures on my camera display, and after exchanging a few more words, we wished each other Happy Holidays and parted.

 

From the corner of my eye I spotted David, (see note), the homeless young man I met a few weeks ago.

www.flickr.com/photos/timelessriver/8183292350/

I went over to say hello. He was still holding the sign "I am hungry and homeless". I asked where he had sleeping lately and he said he was staying with a friend.

I wished him better luck and walked away with my grand-baby in the stroller, praying her life will be a good one.

 

There is so much misery in this world we share. I feel a never ending gratitude in my heart for all that I have in life, mainly the love of my family & friends and the freedom to come and go in considerably good health.

 

 

 

2,417 views
0 faves
3 comments
Uploaded on December 25, 2012
Taken on December 24, 2012