Shoulder The Cross

Spiritual Gifts

So after listening to Matt Carter preach on Sunday about spiritual gifts, I decided to once again hit the streets of Austin to feed the homeless for the second time this week. I decided not to make cookies or eggs. I made 12 sandwiches (a loaf of bread) and brought my normal goodies in my truck. I figured I would see maybe 6 or 7 people out at the park that I could round up. I thought if I had extra sandwiches, I could pass them out to gracious hands at the Austin Resource Center for the Homeless (ARCH). Boy was I surprised when I showed up. There was a line of guys and girls standing there waiting. I thought, WOW talk about spiritual gifts, which one is this? Prophecy? So I get out of my truck in amazement and Chris from Maine walks up and says in his New England accent, "We were right Brian, God spoke to us and told us you were coming, we doubted at first, but we believe now" While this may seem amazing, I was scared to doubt it. I did tell one person, Wayne, that I was coming out this morning and thought to myself, he sure has a big voice with there homeless folks. Most of the guys stayed amused at my amazement for quite some time. I saw a line forming about 30 feet behind my truck, this is when I figured out they were waiting for me, they were waiting for the taco guy to bring tacos from Rudy's BBQ. What great news to hear. I was excited that someone else was helping so early in the morning every Tuesday. I was also happy to help those in need this morning. Thanks Matt Carter for a humbling message this past Sunday. I feel much more humbled by my ministry of serving my brothers and sisters in need.

The need gets greater

  

What a crazy morning it was. There were at least 50 people in need this morning.  I helped at least 7 new people in my line this morning. All my hot water for Cocoa was gone, of course no more coffee. All cans of soup were taken and no more sandwiches. I had no extra shirts and only a few pants and shorts left over. I am humbled by the need on the streets as weekly the homeless come to me with their needs. There was one person in line that made a list on their hand of what they needed. Bug spray, ant killer, sheets, blankets, alarm clocks and watches (Waterproof) are just a few of the requests I got this morning.

It was a blast from the past this morning too. Avon was there for the second week in a row, Gary showed up for the first time in months, even Crazy Willie was there this morning. You can't help but to have an awesome day when Willie is in line. Willie drew me the picture you see above. He asked me "What do you think it is?" I guessed it was an RV and he thought I was a genius. As I helped do my part in stopping homelessness in Austin, Willie entertained me with the sounds of sirens and emergency horns. "Which is better" he asked, "an Ambulance or a fire truck?" "They are equal" he said, "if you are burned in a fire". "WooooOOoo Unk Unk" he screamed out.

I am in great need of watches and radios. If you would like to donate any of these items to help stamp out homelessness in Austin please contact me by clicking the "Comments" section just under my name below.  Have a blessed week

LET’S EAT

It was hard getting out of bed at 5:30 this morning.  I was glad I did though; when I pulled up I saw at least 40 of my homeless friends waiting on me.  In normal fashion, Dogman was at the front of the line.  “You saved my life last week” he said.  “I was overcome by hunger about 2 AM and I found a chocolate chip cookie you gave me at the bottom of my bag, that was the best darn cookie I have ever eaten” I really doubt his life was in harm at 2 AM, but that really solidified the reason why I wake up early and go down town Austin to help in the charitable way I do.

This was the last week I will bring MRE (Meals Ready to Eat) for my friends.  Unfortunately the Austin Capitol Area Food Bank (CAFB) no longer carries these meals ready to eat and my stash has been depleted.  These were always a hit for all of my friends.  I will miss hearing them ask for them as well.  They were called MRIs, FTGs, MGFs, TGSs, TGIF, LOL, BFF and many other names.  Once I asked someone, what does that stand for?  They hesitated and said “BDF is Brian’s Dinner Food ready to eats” Everyone got a great laugh on that one. 

All the food disappeared this morning.  There were quite a few folks who were very sick this morning too.  I filled a lot of requests for flu and allergy medicine.  I forgot to bring the radios out this morning.  That was a bummer for the 2^nd guy in line, who waited all morning for a radio.  I also forgot the eggs at home in the fridge. I get teased a lot when I forget things too. 

When I packed my things back into my truck this morning,getting ready to leave the park, I smiled and waved good bye to my friends.  I noticed one hungry gentleman didn’t go more than 20 feet before he found some comfortable grass to sit on as he enjoyed his Turkey and Cheese sandwich.  How is it so easy for some to stereotype these folks I wondered? I hope one day I will be able to better educate Austinites on homelessness and have them see what I see. Maybe I could convince them to just help out with a Charity, every little bit really does help and it’s true, one person CAN make a difference.

It was hard getting out of bed at 5:30 this morning.  I was glad I did though; when I pulled up I saw at least 40 of my homeless friends waiting on me.  In normal fashion, Dogman was at the front of the line.  “You saved my life last week” he said.  “I was overcome by hunger about 2 AM and I found a chocolate chip cookie you gave me at the bottom of my bag, that was the best darn cookie I have ever eaten” I really doubt his life was in harm at 2 AM, but that really solidified the reason why I wake up early and go down town Austin to help in the charitable way I do.

This was the last week I will bring MRE (Meals Ready to Eat) for my friends.  Unfortunately the Austin Capitol Area Food Bank (CAFB) no longer carries these meals ready to eat and my stash has been depleted.  These were always a hit for all of my friends.  I will miss hearing them ask for them as well.  They were called MRIs, FTGs, MGFs, TGSs, TGIF, LOL, BFF and many other names.  Once I asked someone, what does that stand for?  They hesitated and said “BDF is Brian’s Dinner Food ready to eats” Everyone got a great laugh on that one. 

All the food disappeared this morning.  There were quite a few folks who were very sick this morning too.  I filled a lot of requests for flu and allergy medicine.  I forgot to bring the radios out this morning.  That was a bummer for the 2^nd guy in line, who waited all morning for a radio.  I also forgot the eggs at home in the fridge. I get teased a lot when I forget things too. 

When I packed my things back into my truck this morning,getting ready to leave the park, I smiled and waved good bye to my friends.  I noticed one hungry gentleman didn’t go more than 20 feet before he found some comfortable grass to sit on as he enjoyed his Turkey and Cheese sandwich.  How is it so easy for some to stereotype these folks I wondered? I hope one day I will be able to better educate Austinites on homelessness and have them see what I see. Maybe I could convince them to just help out with a Charity, every little bit really does help and it’s true, one person CAN make a difference.

Foe git about it

Some weeks are good and others are bad. Some weeks I will never forget. This week is one I would rather forget. There is not much else to say about it, just 3 comments.

1. Policemen, Firemen and EMS don’t like homemade cookies or hard boiled eggs.

2. Thank you to all of my friends who were so apologetic. This was nice to see. 

3. A sincere "I'm sorry" to young and sweet, 10 year old Joanna. Unfortunately she was in line and had to listen to the problems and issues today.

I hope to see a happier crowd this Saturday when St. Thomas More middle school Religious Education classes come out to BBQ for the homeless at 3 PM.

Some weeks are good and others are bad. Some weeks I will never forget. This week is one I would rather forget. There is not much else to say about it, just 3 comments.

1. Policemen, Firemen and EMS don’t like homemade cookies or hard boiled eggs.

2. Thank you to all of my friends who were so apologetic. This was nice to see. 

3. A sincere "I'm sorry" to young and sweet, 10 year old Joanna. Unfortunately she was in line and had to listen to the problems and issues today.

I hope to see a happier crowd this Saturday when St. Thomas More middle school Religious Education classes come out to BBQ for the homeless at 3 PM.

Magnanimous Words

I watched the news last night and thought for sure I would get rained on this morning.  I watched the clouds roll in and felt the temperature lower about 20 degrees but was lucky to not have any rain while serving today.  I was surprised to only see 8 people in line when I pulled up.  Maybe it was the forecast of rain that kept my friends away.  As time went on, more people showed up and I had at least 20 friends when all was finished.  Dogman was first in line.  He was happy with some coffee, a sandwich and an MRE.  Shelia and Chris were next in line.  They both appeared to be in good moods.  Chris told me how much he loves reading my blogs.  He mentioned I use too many big words.  He suggested I stick with the 3 and 4 letter words. I told him I would stick to words that were understandable, but I was truly being facetious when I said that.  Chris told me his "C-a-r R-a-n O-u-t O-f G-a-s" proving he is far from being duplicitous.  I asked Jerry what his name was again this morning.  I bet I ask him every week what his name is, for some reason I always forget.  I thought if I mentioned him in my blog I would remember his name, so here’s to you Jerry.  Steven was waiting patiently.  He too brought up my blogging.  I never thought this blog would reach so many.  I asked Steven if he ever reads the blogs and he said “No, 'WE' never get the chance”.  Thomas was next in line.  He gave me a copy of the advocate.  The advocate is an Austin news paper that is printed each month and employs the homeless.  The paper can be bought for .25 cents and then sold for $1.00.  Thomas is a well spoken man who is always kind and patient.  Gary stopped by to say hello.  I enjoy seeing him in the morning; it makes my day go better.  Mark showed up early today.  He said “Brian, you will be providing my Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner today, so load me up!” If anyone ever wonders why I do this, Mark’s words would be a very good description of the answer to this question.  Ed said “hola” to me.  He asked for some “Fat Man” pants and shirts again.  I gave him a pair of 32 pants and a medium T-shirt.  Ok, ok maybe I am being flippant again, they were truly 42’s and an XL T-shirt.

I watched the news last night and thought for sure I would get rained on this morning.  I watched the clouds roll in and felt the temperature lower about 20 degrees but was lucky to not have any rain while serving today.  I was surprised to only see 8 people in line when I pulled up.  Maybe it was the forecast of rain that kept my friends away.  As time went on, more people showed up and I had at least 20 friends when all was finished.  Dogman was first in line.  He was happy with some coffee, a sandwich and an MRE.  Shelia and Chris were next in line.  They both appeared to be in good moods.  Chris told me how much he loves reading my blogs.  He mentioned I use too many big words.  He suggested I stick with the 3 and 4 letter words. I told him I would stick to words that were understandable, but I was truly being facetious when I said that.  Chris told me his "C-a-r R-a-n O-u-t O-f G-a-s" proving he is far from being duplicitous.  I asked Jerry what his name was again this morning.  I bet I ask him every week what his name is, for some reason I always forget.  I thought if I mentioned him in my blog I would remember his name, so here’s to you Jerry.  Steven was waiting patiently.  He too brought up my blogging.  I never thought this blog would reach so many.  I asked Steven if he ever reads the blogs and he said “No, 'WE' never get the chance”.  Thomas was next in line.  He gave me a copy of the advocate.  The advocate is an Austin news paper that is printed each month and employs the homeless.  The paper can be bought for .25 cents and then sold for $1.00.  Thomas is a well spoken man who is always kind and patient.  Gary stopped by to say hello.  I enjoy seeing him in the morning; it makes my day go better.  Mark showed up early today.  He said “Brian, you will be providing my Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner today, so load me up!” If anyone ever wonders why I do this, Mark’s words would be a very good description of the answer to this question.  Ed said “hola” to me.  He asked for some “Fat Man” pants and shirts again.  I gave him a pair of 32 pants and a medium T-shirt.  Ok, ok maybe I am being flippant again, they were truly 42’s and an XL T-shirt.

Those Radios are really bad!!

I was getting my truck ready Monday night for my normal Tuesday morning ritual and my phone rings. “Are you going to do your ministry in the morning” I was asked. “Could I tag along?” I am always happy to let people experience this wonderful ministry and there is always room for help. My friend Brian and I were surprised at the amount of folks in line. Normally on payday weeks, the line is real short, not this week. I estimate I had 40 friends in line again. If this keeps up I may need to change my food distribution to better accommodate everyone. I stepped out of my truck this week and immediately got an earful. Apparently there have been some problems with the brand new radios I have been buying. The main problem is they do not last. Sheila did not hesitate to voice her “Product Review” of these $2 radios from Big Lots. In the past I have purchased the $5 sports radios from Wal-Mart, and these have been indestructible. After learning Wal-Mart would no longer carry these radios, I found some at Big Lots. The Big Lots $5 radios require tools to remove a protective cover over the battery; this has proven to be a difficult task. The easy resolution was to stick with the $2 radio. If I want to show up without earplugs, I will need to get a better option. My friends were patient and kind this morning. Mississippi was near the front of the line. He got a can of soup, a sandwich and an MRE. "What does MRE stand for?" he asked.  "Each meal is a Mystery" I explained "that's why they call them Mr. E's"!  Mississippi got a kick out of this explanation (MREs are really military "Meals Ready to Eat").  I later saw him share his Mr. E with a friend who was one of the last people in line who got very little to eat. The kindness and willingness to share has always impressed me, Mississippi was just another good example of how my friends “survive” on the street. Steven shaved this past week. I mentioned he looked different and he said “Really? How?” When I told him he had shaved he said “I forget that it is gone. I don’t carry a mirror so I never really look at myself.” I had several new people in line this week. Two of the new people were named John.  Last week it was Joshua, this week it is John. Next week could be Mathew, Mark or Luke.  Avon was back this week. He has been fortunate enough to have been staying with someone recently. Mark showed up late. He was excited to get a razor and some coffee. Mark Smith was there this morning too. He said he has already filled up the zip drive he got as a Christmas present. I missed Patrick this morning, I hope he shows up next week.  All of my friends are excited about an upcoming BBQ in the park I am planning. The BBQ will be Saturday February 16th. I know it will be fun and hope there will be plenty of helpers.

I was getting my truck ready Monday night for my normal Tuesday morning ritual and my phone rings. “Are you going to do your ministry in the morning” I was asked. “Could I tag along?” I am always happy to let people experience this wonderful ministry and there is always room for help. My friend Brian and I were surprised at the amount of folks in line. Normally on payday weeks, the line is real short, not this week. I estimate I had 40 friends in line again. If this keeps up I may need to change my food distribution to better accommodate everyone. I stepped out of my truck this week and immediately got an earful. Apparently there have been some problems with the brand new radios I have been buying. The main problem is they do not last. Sheila did not hesitate to voice her “Product Review” of these $2 radios from Big Lots. In the past I have purchased the $5 sports radios from Wal-Mart, and these have been indestructible. After learning Wal-Mart would no longer carry these radios, I found some at Big Lots. The Big Lots $5 radios require tools to remove a protective cover over the battery; this has proven to be a difficult task. The easy resolution was to stick with the $2 radio. If I want to show up without earplugs, I will need to get a better option. My friends were patient and kind this morning. Mississippi was near the front of the line. He got a can of soup, a sandwich and an MRE. "What does MRE stand for?" he asked.  "Each meal is a Mystery" I explained "that's why they call them Mr. E's"!  Mississippi got a kick out of this explanation (MREs are really military "Meals Ready to Eat").  I later saw him share his Mr. E with a friend who was one of the last people in line who got very little to eat. The kindness and willingness to share has always impressed me, Mississippi was just another good example of how my friends “survive” on the street. Steven shaved this past week. I mentioned he looked different and he said “Really? How?” When I told him he had shaved he said “I forget that it is gone. I don’t carry a mirror so I never really look at myself.” I had several new people in line this week. Two of the new people were named John.  Last week it was Joshua, this week it is John. Next week could be Mathew, Mark or Luke.  Avon was back this week. He has been fortunate enough to have been staying with someone recently. Mark showed up late. He was excited to get a razor and some coffee. Mark Smith was there this morning too. He said he has already filled up the zip drive he got as a Christmas present. I missed Patrick this morning, I hope he shows up next week.  All of my friends are excited about an upcoming BBQ in the park I am planning. The BBQ will be Saturday February 16th. I know it will be fun and hope there will be plenty of helpers.

The Lord works in mysterious ways

 

Christmas morning, and 5AM came real early.  Tuesday morning is a wonderful morning for me, and it makes me so humble to minister the way the Lord has gifted me to. 5 AM may be early, but it is always worth it. So many wonderful stories filled with wonderful people.  I thought of maybe dedicating this Christmas week blog to two or three of my favorite memories throughout this blessed year to prove how great it is providing food, clothing, and dignity to our brothers and sisters in need.  Before my trip this morning I prayed to God, thanking Him for the opportunity to serve in this capacity.  A verse in Mathew came to mind:  Jesus said to his disciples: “Ask and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For the one who asks always receives; the one who searches always finds; the one who knocks will always have the door opened to him.” Why is this important in this week’s blog?  After serving this morning I have decided to bring a story that happened not sometime in the past but TODAY, Christmas.  Surprised?  Nothing surprises me anymore.  My daughter and grandson went with me to the church; we were meeting Chaz and the Mobile Loaves and Fishes truck.  Once we arrived, we loaded the truck with presents for my friends.  There were radios and watches, bus passes and a zip drive; I even brought out a Swiss Army knife as a special request.   We jumped into the truck and headed to the St John Neumann commissary to get the breakfast sandwiches.  I arranged with Alan to head out early so we could meet my friends at the normal time.  It was 7AM when we pulled up to Wooldridge Square Park.    “Merry Christmas” I said to the 30 or so people in line as I got out of the truck.  I was so excited to see everyone this fine Christmas morning.  There were some new faces but so many familiar ones.  “Happy to see you.” Derek said.  “Thanks for spending part of this special day with us.” Standing in line patiently, shivering was Dogman.  My daughter brought my grandson over to where Dogman was so he could greet them.  My daughter mentioned Dogman reminded her of Tom Hanks in Cast Away.  Soon it was Dogman's turn, “What would you like?  I have Tylenol, Q-tips, how about some chips and a breakfast sandwich?”  Dogman reached into his thin shirt and pulled out a bag of Lindor milk chocolate truffles and said “All I want is for you to have a Merry Christmas” No food, no goodies.  Not a radio or a watch.  This was about the spirit of giving.  I was very touched and humbled by his actions.  After everyone had their fill, I walked over to Dogman to thank him for his gift.  His eyes swelled up in tears as he reached his arms out and hugged me.  I watched as a tear rolled down his cheek and he whispered “Merry Christmas .”  I was thinking; it’s NOT Tom Hanks he reminds me of

Christmas morning, and 5AM came real early.  Tuesday morning is a wonderful morning for me, and it makes me so humble to minister the way the Lord has gifted me to. 5 AM may be early, but it is always worth it. So many wonderful stories filled with wonderful people.  I thought of maybe dedicating this Christmas week blog to two or three of my favorite memories throughout this blessed year to prove how great it is providing food, clothing, and dignity to our brothers and sisters in need.  Before my trip this morning I prayed to God, thanking Him for the opportunity to serve in this capacity.  A verse in Mathew came to mind:  Jesus said to his disciples: “Ask and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For the one who asks always receives; the one who searches always finds; the one who knocks will always have the door opened to him.” Why is this important in this week’s blog?  After serving this morning I have decided to bring a story that happened not sometime in the past but TODAY, Christmas.  Surprised?  Nothing surprises me anymore.  My daughter and grandson went with me to the church; we were meeting Chaz and the Mobile Loaves and Fishes truck.  Once we arrived, we loaded the truck with presents for my friends.  There were radios and watches, bus passes and a zip drive; I even brought out a Swiss Army knife as a special request.   We jumped into the truck and headed to the St John Neumann commissary to get the breakfast sandwiches.  I arranged with Alan to head out early so we could meet my friends at the normal time.  It was 7AM when we pulled up to Wooldridge Square Park.    “Merry Christmas” I said to the 30 or so people in line as I got out of the truck.  I was so excited to see everyone this fine Christmas morning.  There were some new faces but so many familiar ones.  “Happy to see you.” Derek said.  “Thanks for spending part of this special day with us.” Standing in line patiently, shivering was Dogman.  My daughter brought my grandson over to where Dogman was so he could greet them.  My daughter mentioned Dogman reminded her of Tom Hanks in Cast Away.  Soon it was Dogman's turn, “What would you like?  I have Tylenol, Q-tips, how about some chips and a breakfast sandwich?”  Dogman reached into his thin shirt and pulled out a bag of Lindor milk chocolate truffles and said “All I want is for you to have a Merry Christmas” No food, no goodies.  Not a radio or a watch.  This was about the spirit of giving.  I was very touched and humbled by his actions.  After everyone had their fill, I walked over to Dogman to thank him for his gift.  His eyes swelled up in tears as he reached his arms out and hugged me.  I watched as a tear rolled down his cheek and he whispered “Merry Christmas .”  I was thinking; it’s NOT Tom Hanks he reminds me of

Some familiar faces missing and new ones have been seen

What a difference a week makes. It was 30 degrees warmer than it was last week. The line again grew as I climbed out of my truck into the dreary misty fog. No rain drops but there were plenty of smiles and comments about my Longhorns Jersey. “Who the heck wears #11?” someone asked. Another comment could be heard from the line “How do the people in Golden Gopher land feel about you wearing that Jersey ?” Most of these folks never miss a step, especially when it comes to giving me a hard time!! Greg was near the front of the line today. Greg asked for an oatmeal cookie and I said, “They’re better for you, right?” Greg mentioned that he tries to change his story from one week to the next but could not deny the benefits of a healthy Oatmeal Raisin cookie can bring you. I had forgotten his name so I asked him, “What is your name again?” “Greg” he responded, “That is one thing I will not change from one week to the next.” Mark Smith waited patiently for his turn to come up. “Do you have that zip drive I asked for a few weeks ago?” I mentioned that I was still looking into getting him one and hoped he would have one by Christmas. Mark asked for some coco in his coffee so he could have Mocha. Dogman showed up for the first time in 4 weeks. He said “I reckon me not being here is a good thing; it must mean things have been good for me for the past few weeks”. Crazy Doug was next in line. Smile on his face and quick with his jokes, Doug asked if he could get some Tylenol, vitamins and some cough strips. “Those cough strips really work well” one of the twins chimed in from the line, “They dissolve in your mouth and really help with the cough and even the sniffles” he said. I asked those left in line how Lara has been; it seems like years since I have seen her. Someone mentioned she had a stroke recently and doesn’t get much farther than the ARCH. I also miss talking with Kevin every week; I wish he would show up one morning just to say hi. I know that disappearing could mean good things; I still miss seeing the familiar faces. Joanna looked up at me and said “do you remember my name Brian?” I said “No I am afraid I don’t, there are so many names and faces I tend to have poor short term memory.” She put her head down and said; “I am not good with names either” I said, “If I had to guess though, I would say your name is Joanna” She smiled from ear to ear. Joanna asked for some shampoo, conditioner, lotion, Q-tips, toothpaste and a back pack. I was excited when I actually had everything she needed. “See you next week” she said as she walked away grinning. I saw a few new faces in line today. One guy said he was here to get some medical attention and that he just came into town on Saturday. Another said he has been around the streets for a while but Mississippi told him this past week about the Tuesday morning special. He said it was really cool to get some Q-tips and a sandwich, “I’ll see you next week” he mentioned as he walked away sipping his coffee. As the old faces disappear, new faces show up, I can't help but to be reminded of how much our service is needed. God Bless, Happy Holidays and try to stay warm.

What a difference a week makes. It was 30 degrees warmer than it was last week. The line again grew as I climbed out of my truck into the dreary misty fog. No rain drops but there were plenty of smiles and comments about my Longhorns Jersey. “Who the heck wears #11?” someone asked. Another comment could be heard from the line “How do the people in Golden Gopher land feel about you wearing that Jersey ?” Most of these folks never miss a step, especially when it comes to giving me a hard time!! Greg was near the front of the line today. Greg asked for an oatmeal cookie and I said, “They’re better for you, right?” Greg mentioned that he tries to change his story from one week to the next but could not deny the benefits of a healthy Oatmeal Raisin cookie can bring you. I had forgotten his name so I asked him, “What is your name again?” “Greg” he responded, “That is one thing I will not change from one week to the next.” Mark Smith waited patiently for his turn to come up. “Do you have that zip drive I asked for a few weeks ago?” I mentioned that I was still looking into getting him one and hoped he would have one by Christmas. Mark asked for some coco in his coffee so he could have Mocha. Dogman showed up for the first time in 4 weeks. He said “I reckon me not being here is a good thing; it must mean things have been good for me for the past few weeks”. Crazy Doug was next in line. Smile on his face and quick with his jokes, Doug asked if he could get some Tylenol, vitamins and some cough strips. “Those cough strips really work well” one of the twins chimed in from the line, “They dissolve in your mouth and really help with the cough and even the sniffles” he said. I asked those left in line how Lara has been; it seems like years since I have seen her. Someone mentioned she had a stroke recently and doesn’t get much farther than the ARCH. I also miss talking with Kevin every week; I wish he would show up one morning just to say hi. I know that disappearing could mean good things; I still miss seeing the familiar faces. Joanna looked up at me and said “do you remember my name Brian?” I said “No I am afraid I don’t, there are so many names and faces I tend to have poor short term memory.” She put her head down and said; “I am not good with names either” I said, “If I had to guess though, I would say your name is Joanna” She smiled from ear to ear. Joanna asked for some shampoo, conditioner, lotion, Q-tips, toothpaste and a back pack. I was excited when I actually had everything she needed. “See you next week” she said as she walked away grinning. I saw a few new faces in line today. One guy said he was here to get some medical attention and that he just came into town on Saturday. Another said he has been around the streets for a while but Mississippi told him this past week about the Tuesday morning special. He said it was really cool to get some Q-tips and a sandwich, “I’ll see you next week” he mentioned as he walked away sipping his coffee. As the old faces disappear, new faces show up, I can't help but to be reminded of how much our service is needed. God Bless, Happy Holidays and try to stay warm.

Do you have any Dry Ice?

It was 37 degrees when I pulled out of my garage this morning.  I made sure I had my warm jacket because I knew it was going to be cold ministering to my friends on the street this morning.  Traffic was light so the drive downtown was relaxing.  I pulled up to my normal spot near the downtown library and got out of my truck.  I watched as the line grew and folks came running from all areas of the park.  I hoped I would have enough food and clothes for everyone.  I was surprised because normally the Tuesday after a payday, it is real slow and I am lucky if I minister to just 15 people.  Such was not the case on this cold brisk morning.  I smiled and greeted the line: “Cold enough for you this morning?”  Carrie was at the front of the line this morning.  She was very patient, as I unloaded everything from my truck. I heard someone shout “That truck holds more than it looks like it would”.  Carrie quietly asked if I had any radios this morning.  Luckily last night, Wal-Mart had 3 left.  I decided to bring 1 radio out for the next 3 weeks.  My plan is to give it to the first person who asks.  Unfortunately, Wal-Mart quit carrying these radios during the holiday season.  I pray they start carrying them after the first of the year.  I slid the radio into Carrie’s bag and gave her 3 AA batteries to get it going.  Steven stepped up soon there after.  Steven says “Do you have any dry ice?”  Dry ice?  Now this was a first.  I said, “Steven why would you need dry ice?  I can bring some out too you if you really need it, but the curiosity is killing me”.  Steven said “You asked if we were cold enough this morning, I thought to myself, what if we were not cold enough, I wonder if he would give us dry ice.”  I get it now, that’s what I get when I state the obvious.  This immediately put a smile on my face and reminded me why I continue to do this, whether it’s 30 degrees or 100 degrees.  Steven didn’t get his dry ice but did pick an oatmeal cookie over the big chocolate chunk chip, "they're better for you" he reminded me.  He asked for a warm sweater and some coffee and went about his way.  “God Bless you” he said as he walked away with a smile on his face.  I mentioned a few blogs ago how I never see Mississippi anymore.  I am convinced that if you pray for someone, they will somehow let you know that your prayer was heard.  Mississippi was in line this morning and he brought his friends Rafael and Joanna.  Joanna was very excited.  She noticed I had some feminine hygiene items in a box near my truck.  “Can I have this sir” She kindly asked.  “Of course”, I said, that is why I brought it out here. She enjoyed some chocolate candy, a boiled egg and some hot coco and told me “I’ll be back”.  Once again a subtle reminder of why I am so motivated to serve.  Mississippi has got a pretty good job now and says he tries to keep a roof over his head.  He was happy to see I still come out.  He promised not be stay away for quite as long next time.  This morning ended up to be a great morning all in all, I even had leftover eggs and canned fruit.  The one thing I lacked was warm gloves.  I got several requests for these.  I will need to find an inexpensive place to pick some up, so next time I will not have to say “No I am sorry, I don’t have any of those”  If anyone has any ideas of where I could get some warm gloves, please let me know.  I am willing to pay for them.  God bless you all and stay warm!! 

It was 37 degrees when I pulled out of my garage this morning.  I made sure I had my warm jacket because I knew it was going to be cold ministering to my friends on the street this morning.  Traffic was light so the drive downtown was relaxing.  I pulled up to my normal spot near the downtown library and got out of my truck.  I watched as the line grew and folks came running from all areas of the park.  I hoped I would have enough food and clothes for everyone.  I was surprised because normally the Tuesday after a payday, it is real slow and I am lucky if I minister to just 15 people.  Such was not the case on this cold brisk morning.  I smiled and greeted the line: “Cold enough for you this morning?”  Carrie was at the front of the line this morning.  She was very patient, as I unloaded everything from my truck. I heard someone shout “That truck holds more than it looks like it would”.  Carrie quietly asked if I had any radios this morning.  Luckily last night, Wal-Mart had 3 left.  I decided to bring 1 radio out for the next 3 weeks.  My plan is to give it to the first person who asks.  Unfortunately, Wal-Mart quit carrying these radios during the holiday season.  I pray they start carrying them after the first of the year.  I slid the radio into Carrie’s bag and gave her 3 AA batteries to get it going.  Steven stepped up soon there after.  Steven says “Do you have any dry ice?”  Dry ice?  Now this was a first.  I said, “Steven why would you need dry ice?  I can bring some out too you if you really need it, but the curiosity is killing me”.  Steven said “You asked if we were cold enough this morning, I thought to myself, what if we were not cold enough, I wonder if he would give us dry ice.”  I get it now, that’s what I get when I state the obvious.  This immediately put a smile on my face and reminded me why I continue to do this, whether it’s 30 degrees or 100 degrees.  Steven didn’t get his dry ice but did pick an oatmeal cookie over the big chocolate chunk chip, "they're better for you" he reminded me.  He asked for a warm sweater and some coffee and went about his way.  “God Bless you” he said as he walked away with a smile on his face.  I mentioned a few blogs ago how I never see Mississippi anymore.  I am convinced that if you pray for someone, they will somehow let you know that your prayer was heard.  Mississippi was in line this morning and he brought his friends Rafael and Joanna.  Joanna was very excited.  She noticed I had some feminine hygiene items in a box near my truck.  “Can I have this sir” She kindly asked.  “Of course”, I said, that is why I brought it out here. She enjoyed some chocolate candy, a boiled egg and some hot coco and told me “I’ll be back”.  Once again a subtle reminder of why I am so motivated to serve.  Mississippi has got a pretty good job now and says he tries to keep a roof over his head.  He was happy to see I still come out.  He promised not be stay away for quite as long next time.  This morning ended up to be a great morning all in all, I even had leftover eggs and canned fruit.  The one thing I lacked was warm gloves.  I got several requests for these.  I will need to find an inexpensive place to pick some up, so next time I will not have to say “No I am sorry, I don’t have any of those”  If anyone has any ideas of where I could get some warm gloves, please let me know.  I am willing to pay for them.  God bless you all and stay warm!! 

What a difference a week makes

I knew it was going to be a great day as soon as I rolled out of bed this morning.  I started the coffee and boiled some water for the hot cocoa.  I checked to make sure I had everything I needed; (I still forgot the Neosporin, but stashed it in my truck for next week’s trip) I showered and left for downtown.  “Wow” I thought, "here I am leaving at the same time I woke up last week, things go so much better when you actually set your alarm clock."  I was surprised when I rolled into my normal parking spot.  There were at least 40 people in line.  I felt like it was a reunion.  Dogman was there, Anna was there also.  Kevin made it for the 2^nd week in a row.  Kevin is a recovering alcoholic who is doing well at a half way house.  He said he gets bored sometimes and needs more to do.  I left him my email address so he could keep in touch with me if he needed someone to talk with.  Robert was there with Roy this morning.  I haven’t seen him for at least 6 months.  I heard he had some heart problems and was recovering slowly.  He mentioned this morning that things are going well and it was great to be out and about again.  His friend and mine, Roy , came back to ask for another Meal Ready to Eat (MRE).  These self heating meals have been a hit with my friends’ downtown.  I recently purchased some pull tab Progresso soup.  This is a favorite of many as well.  I saw the man and woman with their 10 year old girl again this morning.  I wish they would come around more often.  I never get enough time with them.  I know there are plenty of charitable organizations that could help them.  They are so kind and so warm hearted.  I gave them 3 Reese's peanut butter cups and had a feeling the little one would talk her parents out of the two I left for them.  Mississippi told me he was under the weather today.  He took some Ibuprofen and some cough strip to go with his sandwich and MRE.  Hopefully this will improve his health for a little while.  Rashini was there this morning.  She is such a kind lady.  She is so shy and quiet; I can barely hear what she says.  I told her how beautiful she was this morning and told her she did not need to be so self conscious.  I was surprised to see 3 Joshua’s in line this morning. Joshua in biblical terms was an Israelite leader who succeeded Moses. His story is told in the Hebrew Bible, chiefly in the books Exodus, the Numbers, and Joshua. He was one of the twelve spies sent on by Moses to explore the land of  Canaan who would later lead the conquest of that land. I wondered what the chances were of getting 3 people with this name in my line in one morning.  Steven was there again this morning.  He said he needs funding for an invention.  His thought is instead of Cryonics, the work of freezing people, he wants to use Radiation instead.  He believes this will kill them but will allow for later revival when needed.  I asked him if he was planning on running for president.  I got rid of all my food this morning.  I brought out 40 Reese's peanut butter cups and gave one to everyone in line with the exception of a few that either forgot to ask for one or did not want one.  I would have to say this was one of my busiest mornings ever.  Patrick hung around to help me pick up the left over trash.  Kevin stuck around so we could catch up for a bit.  I left this morning saying “I wish I could start my day like this every morning”  Doing this takes a lot of preparation and work but the reward I get far out weighs the time and efforts put into getting things ready on a weekly basis.

I knew it was going to be a great day as soon as I rolled out of bed this morning.  I started the coffee and boiled some water for the hot cocoa.  I checked to make sure I had everything I needed; (I still forgot the Neosporin, but stashed it in my truck for next week’s trip) I showered and left for downtown.  “Wow” I thought, "here I am leaving at the same time I woke up last week, things go so much better when you actually set your alarm clock."  I was surprised when I rolled into my normal parking spot.  There were at least 40 people in line.  I felt like it was a reunion.  Dogman was there, Anna was there also.  Kevin made it for the 2^nd week in a row.  Kevin is a recovering alcoholic who is doing well at a half way house.  He said he gets bored sometimes and needs more to do.  I left him my email address so he could keep in touch with me if he needed someone to talk with.  Robert was there with Roy this morning.  I haven’t seen him for at least 6 months.  I heard he had some heart problems and was recovering slowly.  He mentioned this morning that things are going well and it was great to be out and about again.  His friend and mine, Roy , came back to ask for another Meal Ready to Eat (MRE).  These self heating meals have been a hit with my friends’ downtown.  I recently purchased some pull tab Progresso soup.  This is a favorite of many as well.  I saw the man and woman with their 10 year old girl again this morning.  I wish they would come around more often.  I never get enough time with them.  I know there are plenty of charitable organizations that could help them.  They are so kind and so warm hearted.  I gave them 3 Reese's peanut butter cups and had a feeling the little one would talk her parents out of the two I left for them.  Mississippi told me he was under the weather today.  He took some Ibuprofen and some cough strip to go with his sandwich and MRE.  Hopefully this will improve his health for a little while.  Rashini was there this morning.  She is such a kind lady.  She is so shy and quiet; I can barely hear what she says.  I told her how beautiful she was this morning and told her she did not need to be so self conscious.  I was surprised to see 3 Joshua’s in line this morning. Joshua in biblical terms was an Israelite leader who succeeded Moses. His story is told in the Hebrew Bible, chiefly in the books Exodus, the Numbers, and Joshua. He was one of the twelve spies sent on by Moses to explore the land of  Canaan who would later lead the conquest of that land. I wondered what the chances were of getting 3 people with this name in my line in one morning.  Steven was there again this morning.  He said he needs funding for an invention.  His thought is instead of Cryonics, the work of freezing people, he wants to use Radiation instead.  He believes this will kill them but will allow for later revival when needed.  I asked him if he was planning on running for president.  I got rid of all my food this morning.  I brought out 40 Reese's peanut butter cups and gave one to everyone in line with the exception of a few that either forgot to ask for one or did not want one.  I would have to say this was one of my busiest mornings ever.  Patrick hung around to help me pick up the left over trash.  Kevin stuck around so we could catch up for a bit.  I left this morning saying “I wish I could start my day like this every morning”  Doing this takes a lot of preparation and work but the reward I get far out weighs the time and efforts put into getting things ready on a weekly basis.