Gerald wasn't favored among the community, he was the man with no home or job. The man who would frequent the front of local stores such as Starbucks, holding a sign that said “Anything helps.”
Most people would blow him off, casting nasty glares his way. Some even boldly shouting “Get a job filthy junkie!” But they didn't know Gerald's story like me.
I first met him while he was outside my apartment one night. I asked how he was. He told me he was just trying to get some food for dinner before he headed home. I asked where he lived, and he said “The ol’ Barnes shack.” I offered to buy him some food, then take him home.
During our meal Gerald told me how he was a veteran in the Vietnam war. He told me some horrible stuff that went on, and that he hadn't been the same since he got home. He was diagnosed with major PTSD. He was part of some government programs to help Vets, but that help only extended so far for someone as himself. So the streets had been home for him for many years now.
After that, I made it a point to bring him a hot meal every Sunday night. It was a particularly cold winter this year, so I brought extra blankets too.
Walking into the building I noticed snow everywhere from all the busted windows. I went to his spot, and started to cry. For there he lay, beautifully frozen in place.
About the Creator
Tressa Rose
On a serious self-discovering, soul-searching journey. Breaking myself out of a stagnant shell and reaching out for my dream of being a writer.
Co-author of Bounce Back- Dreams to Reality: Faith Over Fear
https://a.co/d/98H2vCF
Reader insights
Outstanding
Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!
Top insights
Compelling and original writing
Creative use of language & vocab
Easy to read and follow
Well-structured & engaging content
Excellent storytelling
Original narrative & well developed characters
Expert insights and opinions
Arguments were carefully researched and presented
Eye opening
Niche topic & fresh perspectives
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
Masterful proofreading
Zero grammar & spelling mistakes
On-point and relevant
Writing reflected the title & theme
Keep reading
More stories from Tressa Rose and writers in Fiction and other communities.
If You Love Me, You'll Do It
I met Jason when I was five years old. I could say that I loved him from the moment I saw him. He was so handsome to me and I felt in awe by his presence. When they introduced him as the new kid in school, I wanted to be his friend right away. I remember it like it was yesterday. I remember his smile and how he didn't seem shy. He appeared confident and ready to learn. I waved at him and said "hello," before anyone else could even say a word. He sat next to me, and I asked him if he wanted to be friends. He looked so happy as he said, "Yes!"
By Sidney Smith (Sid Smith)7 days ago in Fiction
Comments (6)
Outstanding! Awesome
Omgggg, this is sooooo devastating!! 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 Poor Gerald!!
Oh so tragic! Alas!
😭😭 Such a sad but all too real tale. Unfortunately, there are many Geralds out there. It is not always easy to tell them apart from the scammers, but I love that the narrator took the time to learn his story and understand his plight.
Aw man, poor Gerald. The saddest part about this story is that it’s not far from what really happens all too often to our vets in this country. Great entry Tressa, thanks for sharing
Whoa!!! That was the saddest ending and possibly true for a certain percentage of our Vets. Good rest your Character's soul. And I thank him for his service. Nice micro, Tressa!