5 Minutes with a Homeless Man

Yesterday for whatever reason, it was just a stressful day. I was driving home thinking about everything I needed to do in the next couple weeks among various projects going on. But right before I got on the freeway to head home I saw a homeless man. Probably early thirties. Thick beard, tattered clothes, holding a piece of cardboard and had a nervous shake when he tried to stand still. I’ve seen plenty of homeless people and have felt guilty for not stopping because of my own selfish reasons. But for some reason, this time I just decided to stop. I got out of my truck and walked over to the guy, shook his hand and asked how his day was going. He said life is just rough right now. I told him I completely understand and for whatever reason, I told him a little about my life and my stresses. I felt the need to tell him that he and I may be in different circumstances, but that he wasn’t alone. That someone like myself blessed with a vehicle, home and a family still is no better than a man trying to make his way at the corner of a freeway. I encouraged him to keep pushing forward, handed him a few dollars and was on my way. So what did I learn from this? I completely forgot about myself. I forgot about my troubles and I had a reality check. So for anyone out there fighting the daily grind, find someone and shake their hands. You’re not just making their day, but you’re also making your own.