Homelessness is not an exclusive club. All are welcome. No one is exempt. No one is turned away.
In my journey through homelessness, I came to realize that no amount of money, education, work history, friends, family, or material possessions could prevent homelessness.
I stayed at the Portland Rescue Mission during a portion of my journey. In my opinion, they understand the causes of homelessness. Causes of Homelessness
Before my own experience, I had preconceived notions of what caused homelessness. My understanding was erroneous at best and very judgmental at worst. I didn't think it would ever happen to me and while I was aware of the homeless population in Portland, I did my best to distant myself. Fear kept me from learning more.
Once I became part of this group, I found myself opening up and I began conversations with people I met. I have met a wide variety of people from all walks of life. I have met medical professionals, corporate professionals, a physicist, an educator, restaurant workers, construction workers, transportation workers, veterans, students, mothers, daughters, sisters, fathers, brothers and more. I used to think that laziness and a lack of motivation brought people to the streets. There is no one reason. Anything can and will contribute to bringing us to a different way of life.
Or, so I think.It
seems easy enough.Yet, I have this
feeling…..
After several “difficult” years I gave this year’s WORD a
lot of pre-thought.I chose LOVE under
the assumption it would be easier than previous years.However, I have discovered that LOVE is also
connected to vulnerability.Always a fun
place to be.Feeling one’s jugular
exposed can be…well, awkward at best and terrifying at worst.Exposure comes to mind.Feeling naked and observed.
There is a saying that goes...."be careful what you wish for." Those words never rang truer for me than they did in 2014.
My journey is of posts to come, however, I did learn trust.
I spent 7 months homeless, living in shelters in downtown
Portland.
On 12.12.14, two years to date of my spiritual awakening, I
landed.In my very own space.
My journey was hard and scary at times and yet most times I
found it incredibly beautiful and I am so very grateful for my experiences this
year.
More importantly, I met some amazing people that I would
have otherwise never come in contact with.I have a deeper understanding of not only myself but my world.
I am happier, healthier and clearer than I have ever been in
my entire life.And that’s not a
dramatic statement.That is fact.
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