What we like about this story is its power through vulnerability.
Excuse me, what are you looking at? Do I look that different than you? Out here on the street you might not see me at all, it’s easier to look away. I’m not invisible; I’m a person of color, a big guy who loves to laugh with a great smile, I might add. My name is James, thanks for asking.
Why don’t I just get a job? Just go apply to McDonald’s or a fast food joint? It might surprise you that I have held jobs in the past; I haven’t always been like this. I worked with adolescents at Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital. And, for three years, I even worked at Starbucks.
This story expresses how it feels to be homeless and scrutinized, but also how one organization is fighting to give the homeless dignity and restored hope.
The Davies Shelter, in a way, allows me to remake myself. When you’re constantly ignored or looked down upon with judgmental eyes you begin to believe and live out the stereotypes and stigmas. It’s a self-fulfilling prophecy of sorts, and you cannot help but to play that role. Since I live in a home now, I have peace of mind for the first time since I was a kid, and I no longer see myself in that role.
Read the whole story here.