On a Cold Morning

Whenever the temperature falls to the single digits as it has this morning, my thoughts turn to the homeless.  How awful it is to be without a roof over your head, a bed to stretch out in, food in your belly!

We who live in the country and suburbs are spared the sight of those who have taken to the streets, but downtown, the lonely, hungry and desperate are everywhere—on nearly every street corner, hovered over steam vents, wrapped in blankets, some clutching onto shopping carts which contain the sum total of their worldly goods.

I had two brief encounters with homelessness, but unlike those I hold in my heart this morning, relatives took me in both times.  Even so, I know too well that not having your own place takes the very wind out of your sails.  You feel weak, powerless, depressed, and insignificant—all of which makes it all the more difficult to turn your life and your circumstances around.

I know I cannot heal everyone.  Nor can I put smiles on everyone’s face, nor house, feed and clothe all in need.  It doesn’t stop me from wishing I could.  What I will do today is tune my little harp, dress warmly, and set out to do what I can to make whatever differences I am able to make, whenever I can, for whomever I meet.

“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” — Anne Frank

“Act as if what you do makes a difference.  It does.” — William James

” I have found the paradox that if I love until it hurts then there is no hurt, but only more love.” — Mother Teresa

May you make a difference in at least one someone’s day today!

Enjoy your day!