If you haven’t yet, you must read reporter, Matt Pascarella’s
interview with Santa Claus on page 5 of the newspaper. It’s a real interview with real answers. (I’ll let you decide which
part is real. If you believe in magic and miracles, it’s all true.)
There is bit of advice Ol’ St. Nick recommends that rings
true for me. He told Pascarella, “Make a wish for a family in need or think of
a way to help a fellow human.”
What’s interesting is that Santa isn’t the only person who
recommends this advice. If one considers all the major belief systems, they all
promote this same philosophical approach to living.
For whatever reason, this time of year softens our hearts for
those who face extreme challenges. Especially homeless individuals. But once
the holidays are over, our hearts become less understanding. Perhaps out of
frustration or stress, we return to our old ways. We throw stones and shame
those who live on the streets. “Get a job!”, we protest.
I’m not going to deny that I view life through rose-colored
glasses. I’m also not going to deny that some who stand on streets corners manipulate
their hardships to pull at the heartstrings of someone like me to abuse the
system. But must we let those few shatter the life of the many, that often
include children and teenagers? Read "Student homelessness" on the front page of the newspaper.)
There is a lot we don’t understand about homelessness, but I
think Santa’s on to something that aligns with a moral conviction most of us
have to help the less fortunate.
I think this community exceeds beautifully in the art of
goodwill for those facing a multitude of challenges. But there is still that stigma
of homelessness that create shame and disgrace - making life unnecessarily more
difficult - for those who live on the streets, in cold abandoned buildings, in
cars or on someone’s couch - never knowing when the next meal will be or where
they will lay their head that night.
Let’s consider Santa’s advice by taking back our stones and misconceptions aimed at the homeless; especially as it affects displaced
children and teenagers. They are our future, after all. Who knows what sort of
magic will happen if you give a child solid ground without having to worry
about dodging stones.
May you find warmth this winter season with family and
friends in a home you call your own. Happy Winter Solstice and Merry Christmas!
No comments:
Post a Comment