I'm NOT Lazy, I'm Homeless

A few days I posted some stats about the Vets who served our country who are homeless.  It's not the first time I've posted that type of information, nor will it be the last; but through posting that one of our contributors responded with a story so full of heart, I wanted to re-share it he in a post.

I mentioned some people think all homeless are lazy, undeserving of our help.  You've heard that as well, on tv, in the news, from some politicians even.  I know I often see on facebook people posting about how homeless and those on welfare are just people who don't care, who are lazy, who milk the system.  I disagree with that on a variety of levels. And from those statements comes this thoughtful, heart wrenching story............as you read this story think of the people in your life you know are struggling, think of the times in your life that you were struggling.  How far away from homeless are some people, and ......Boom, it's happened you are homeless.

Sandy, I know, like you, some people say that homeless are lazy, etc,, but this is not true!!! I want to share a personal story with you and the others in the group that truly hits home. About 20 years ago I was experiencing difficulties in my marriage. We were basically living paycheck-to-paycheck when my husband (at the time) decided that he wanted to go back home and live with his parents(we were living in Florida at the time and his parents were in Illinois). He left one morning for work and never returned. We had two small children at the time this was happening and I was working full time. He went to the bank and took out every cent that was in the account and also took money out of the ATM for the amount of the overdraft protection ($500). He did all of this while I thought he was at work that day. Needless to say by the next day I realized I was in serious trouble. I was kicked out of my apartment, all of my and my children's belongings were put on the curb of the apartment complex and I found myself homeless with two small children. I thank God every day that I had family members I was able to turn to for help, whereas most do not. I ask that people find compassion when it comes to the homeless because you never know what their situation is or was to have them in the current condition they find themselves. I pray one day this will no longer be an issue or problem anywhere.
Thanks for letting me share my story and may God bless us all. 

Thank you Florence H for sharing this story, and thank you for giving back by being part of this group.  I'm thrilled you were able to take care of your family, and pull out of that mess you found yourself in.  And now, you help others.  Bless you for all you do.

As a child, I often heard my Mother say, "But for the Grace of God, Go I".  I really didn't understand what she meant when I was young; but that is so very very true.  She also used to say no matter how bad you think you've got it, there is someone worse off then you.  Again wise words Mom.  There is always something we can do for others and I thank you all who do just that.

The photo was taken from my back yard about this time last year as the sun was setting, and the leaves had floating to the ground, making the view possible.  I found it inspiring and hope you do as well.

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