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I sat
in the line of cars waiting silently for what felt like an eternity to get my
fast food meal on a dreary Friday evening. Glancing around the parking lot
there seemed to be many others that had the same idea of a “non- cooking
evening,” on their mind as well. An older model Winnebago I recognized sat
parked in a familiar spot. I had viewed it resting in this same spot several
times as I drove down Sunset Blvd. It had also been spotted near the Renton
airport on a few occasions after participating in local homeless feeds. Books,
clothing, papers and a pair of heads were visible through curtains on the rear
windows. Everything about its appearance looked dingy. A few restaurant
employees stood nearby glancing at the vehicle, looked irritated, and could be
heard saying “just go somewhere,” but on this day a pair of small fingers
wiggling in my direction caused my temporary stare to halt. I noted they were pointing
at the red and blue police lights that now flashed outside of their motor
vehicle.
Soon, an officer approached the door, knocked,
and waited before being greeted by an occupant. Within moments an emotional
conversation occurred that several of us in line could obviously hear, while
pretending like we couldn’t. One behind the other with each word carrying more
punch than the one before it came out in a trembling tone… “homeless, nowhere
to go, all our things, unemployed, scared, keep moving.” It was in that moment
my eyes were reminded that despite seeing this vehicle around the area for
months, and it displaying one appearance, the clutter made another statement. A
situation which clearly opened my eyes, and served as a reminder that things
often become complex when a life event changes your current situation. While
appearing unkempt, this vehicle was still home for a family. I began to ponder
the question of where would I head if I had no place to stay? I shuddered
unsure of my answer. We forget too often while looking through the lens, it can
be any of us on the other end- in the blink of an eye.
Community service has brought this statement to the
forefront of my thoughts over the past several months. I have been blessed to
meet so many others, get to know them, and hear their stories. Many are in
similar predicaments, and living on the streets. Some have tents and a blanket
if they are “lucky.” Situations are complex and often challenging for most. A daily pile of obstacles is a given, and
normally difficult to emerge from. This often challenges beliefs and diminishes
hope.
Recently I heard the story of a car that was missing a
window, and filled with clutter symbolizing progress. Life had been filled with
struggles. While the clutter in the car meant that there was no permanent residence
at the time, it represented no longer sleeping on the ground and battling the
elements each night. There was a roof overhead. Things were changing for
someone, and this evening I was reminded that while we don’t always immediately
see what should be celebrated in a situation, others can serve as a reminder of
being appreciative of even that which many view as minor.
In this new year I take with me the knowledge that what we
see and think we understand, we often do not. Clutter can mean this is one’s
personal belongings that must remain with them because there is no permanent
residence, clutter can mean if the items are left behind they may be stolen, or
tossed by the city. It can mean a number of things. However, it doesn’t always
have to be a negative. Clutter may speak the story that one is experiencing
positive changes for their efforts. We must be non-judgmental, receptive to
listening, constantly learning, and willing to help make a change if we are in
a position to do so.
