The old “regular” homeless, I am rather cavalier about. They know how to take care of themselves. They know where to sleep (not on a main sidewalk), where to get food, even where to do laundry and grab a shower. But, the “new” homeless… But, by grace… that could have been me. How did I get so very lucky?
Years ago I was friends with a homeless man here in Kona. We exchanged paperback books. He had a modest Social Security check, he was what Carlton called a “maintenance drunk”. Meaning he was able to keep just the right amount of alcohol in his system at all times. Once a month, when he got his Social Security, he would check into my hotel. Rest up, wash up, and invite his buddies over for showers and some TV. He was always very careful not to be noticed by the “regular” guests. Carlton thought it was strange that Jim would buy me breakfast every now and then. I didn’t, it made Jim feel “normal”. I was able to return the favor by getting him into Section 8 Senior Housing. Even got the hotel to give him a spare TV. (I think they were glad not to have his business any longer.)
I have made peace with my Gmail Account. It really isn’t bothering anyone except me. I’ll just tidy it up a bit. And tell Google to delete everything 6 months after they haven’t heard from me.
Going to go watch the sun go down now.