GRACE pours like coffee

I visited my homeless friends again today. It's really difficult for me to articulate the words that express the experience. I took them food, but I left there with far more than I carried in. They are such a warm friendly crowd and while I'm sitting on their blankets having conversation with them, they leave me in awe at their earnest attempts to be respectful and polite. They truly are gracious in their appreciation and although I know they are street smart and have seen far more than my eyes can fathom, there is a sense of innocence about them. Tonight there were children there and I was impressed by how they made sure the kids received food first. The kids were so bored, but their mom made them stay right there under her wing. Had I known they would be there I would have taken them some books, next time I'll be prepared. Most of the same people were there from last week, but I met a few new ones and I was blessed by their acquaintance. When people they don't trust wander in there is a sense of alert cautiousness. They watch out for each other and they were watching out for me too. They like me and I think it's interesting that they ask me as many questions as I ask them. Some of them have bibles in their backpacks and some of them tell me stories about how they pray for provisions and there are a few who simply listen. The park where I meet them is located across the street from this mansion which is now just a historical touristy place where people have weddings and tea parties and social gatherings. It's such a cultural contradiction to see a stretch limousine pull up to the mansion while right across the street people don't know where their next meal is coming from. I find myself reevaluating what I buy...a typical caramel machiato from Starbuck's would feed two homeless people. Today I fed about 16 people on less than $20 and in exchange they filled my spirit with genuine fellowship and I didn't have to wait in line!