Photo by Stephen Osman / Special to The Star
Read more: http://www.vcstar.com/news/2010/dec/08/winter-shelters-give-homeless-a-warm-place-to/#ixzz1pi2wlBkB – vcstar.com
Tattered pants cling to him
one foot is missing as he
waits sitting in his chair the
light rail riding steadily
making its’ way down the
hill people agog are staring
Homelessness is not partial
Exhaustion overtakes him now
nods his head, closes his eyes
wakes fitfully to look around
mumbles quietly to only himself
grimy hands and face weathered
to the wheelchair tethered
Homelessness is emptiness waiting
Hunger wantonly showing through
threadbare clothes simply clinging
rail slows to a stop as the ramp
descends his smile a caricature of
life waiting and with no fear he
announces ‘Evel Knievel’s’ coming
Homelessness takes many hostages
© March 2012 Renee Espriu
I was riding the light rail coming home and the gentleman I saw in his wheelchair told a story, sad but true. Found this image at a site for the Ventura County Star News and decided to use it. The story found through the link tells about this gentleman seen in the photo. Caused me to reflect what might be in store for the man I saw today.
reneejustturtleflight.com 
This breaks your heart.
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homelessness is worst curse bestowed upon a human being. even a bird can rest for the night at a comfortable place.
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I so agree, Trisha, and as I came but a step away some years back I see all to clearly what people go through. Yes, even a bird has branches to perch on and the sky in which to fly.
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When I think about the suffering of these people I thank God that I have never been close to it. My ancestors left enough for us, or else my siblings might have turned me into one.
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are you guys having any problem with using wordpress? I am facing too much trouble lately.
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Compassionate poem from a compassionate lady.
This issue is tough to deal with not matter which side of the picture you’re on; but, it’s an excruciating thing for the homeless and same on us that the issue gets worse every year and now includes many children and teens.
Thank you for blogging on this Renee.
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Thank you and you are welcome, Jamie. I once came so very close to not having a roof over my head it quite woke me up! I hope not ever to be in that situation again but know now it is only a moment away for so many people.
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Sometimes there’s really not much that separates us from a roof and the street.
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Many, many families are one serious illness away from homelessness. I am active in universal health care advocacy – which would also get this poor fella the services he needs.
I have homeless friends (I can’t bring them all home, and they would not want to come anyway, too far from downtown). Anytime someone approaches me for change, I take them to a coffee shop and buy them a bran muffin or some fruit and coffee or tea. It gives them a place to rest their feet (not to mention entrance to the establishment in the first place) and a little something good for their stomach.
I don’t give out money, because I’ve been in the thrall of drugs in earlier years and don’t want to give anyone that encouragement; also, I don’t want them to get “rolled” for their cash. VERY good piece, Renee, Amen. Amy
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I am the more quiet sort of advocate for those in such situations. I can give a voice with words but you, on the other hand, you are a wonderful, step up to the plate, out there, letting people know…sort of advocate. Without people like you nothing would get accomplished and nothing done. I admire you for the things you do, my friend, and hope you never stop doing them. I will write something now and again but that is the difference between us. I came so close to being without a home once that it left a lasting impression. Thank you for your kind words. Peace to you always!
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I was homeless in Oxnard and Port Hueneme. If it wasn’t for the Rescue Mission I could still be on the street or worse. I don’t know if you seen of two recent posts on homelessness I’ve written but I invite you over. Here’s one http://booguloo.wordpress.com/2012/03/18/who-am-i-to-judge/
I live in Long Beach now, but I really miss My adopted home towns.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on your blog.
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I did see your post and thought it to touch on so much truth and can now see it has come from your heart as you lived it. I was one step away from not having a roof over my head and for two years was fortunate enough to rent a room from an elderly lady, with whom I still keep in touch. I know where Long Beach is as I was raised in Downey so California is well known to me. Thank you for visiting and for your comment.
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Such a sad tale Renee, both in your poem and for the homeless people.. and many more are joining their ranks.. I see here too an increase… sending thoughts out.. And Blessings… ~Sue x
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It is sad. I see new homeless every day I ride the light rail downtown to where I work and think of them sleeping in places most would not even walk. Sometimes, the older ones, when I no longer see them, can only imagine what may have happened. Nameless to most but they are people, like most of us, that once had homes.
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Yes, this world has got to change Renee, we need to see that we need to care… Love to you for caring…
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