I.C.U.

I’ve always had a burden for the homeless population. Most of my life I just did what most of us do; when I saw a homeless person I diverted my eyes and felt awkward and guilt ridden. Maybe, I would give one or two people a little money if I had it, but I’d wonder what they’d use it for. Beyond that I didn’t know what to do. I felt sorry for the homeless, but I also felt completely helpless to do anything for them.

However, my view of homelessness and those caught in its web has changed so much as I’ve gotten older and a little wiser. I’ve finally figured out that, if I really want to help the homeless, I can’t wait around for the perfect solution to come to me. I need to jump in where I’m at now and figure the rest out as I go.

So, where am I, exactly? I’m in an interesting place where I can really use a cause that’s close to my heart, as an outlet for some much needed healing. I’ve found that the best therapy for me is found in caring for others. So, that’s the first thing I bring to the table; the desire to help myself by helping others.

Second, I’m suddenly completely independent. My kids are grown, and my husband is gone (See my Suddenly Single posts for more on that). My parents and sister have given me a soft place to land living with them, and my expenses are low. This leaves me with some freedom to explore life outside the responsibilities of mothering kids at home, and being a supportive loving wife. I’m essentially free to be me, and to decide exactly who that is.

The third thing I bring to help my homeless friends is my love for researching, learning, and writing about my findings. I want to help others see these beautiful souls, and not just pass them by without offering a smile or a wave. Sometimes the best gift we can give someone is a smile that says to them, “I see you and I care enough to send a little positive energy your way.” This is especially true for those who are all too often ignored.

But I digress. Here’s my plan:

Every day for the next year I’m going to do something to help the homeless. I’m not going to worry about what to do weeks or even days from now. I’m just going to take one step at a time and see where this journey leads.

Today was day one. All I did was visit the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless and leave contact information so I can start volunteering with them. I’ve followed up with an email and I’m writing this day one post. That’s it!

I plan to continue posting each day to let you guys know what I learn, and hopefully to inspire your own acts of kindness. It can be anywhere! The homeless are far from the only people who need love. We kind of All Do, right?

I think the daily posts will help in several ways, but mainly it will document the journey, and keep me focused on my goal. I’m hoping to share pictures and stories from the people I meet. I hope to gain a new perspective on what it means to be homeless. Mostly I want to see what impact I can make doing just a little each day. The power of consistent effort is incredible, and I’m ready to put that power to work. Come on Denver. Let’s start seeing and loving our homeless.

I love you guys! Thank you for reading!