I think the vocation of choice here in OKC is sign holder. Seems like everywhere I go there's someone, usually a man, standing on a street corner holding up one of those "hungry, homeless, vetern, need help" signs. I am certainly aware of the plight of the homeless and my awareness is more than just knowledge, it does involve activism. But, I just don't know what to make of/how to react to these folks on the corners? Is it considered a proper response to bring them a sack full of groceries? Wave a dollar bill? Offer tips on where to get food/shelter? Most aren't brazen enough to write "cash only" on their signs and who am I to presume what this person needs or doesn't need? Maybe they do need cash. Maybe they just need gasoline to get out of town. Maybe food is a high priority or maybe they just like to watch the traffic go by. I don't know why this is sticking with me tonight but it is.
A few years ago there was this guy that hung out at NW 39th & Penn with a sign that said, "why lie? I need a beer."
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
4 comments:
The right response is up to you: if you want to give a guy a sack of groceries, give him a sack of groceries. Dollar bills, granola bars, six packs, a compassionate glance, an ignoring stare; it’s up to you to decide what your response should be. Me, I like to pelt them with powdered donuts. What? It’s a more humane way of tagging them than those ear thingies they use on cattle.
You are going to love hell.
You mean I'm not there already? Damn.
In my drive home from work I, unknown until now, pass three Quizno's Restaurants. Each restaurant insist on putting the high schooler out on the street holding a Quizno's sign and waving at the traffic.
Maybe we could convince the homeless to hold Quizno's signs instead? They'd probably get a free sandwich out of the deal too.
I see it as a win - win!
Post a Comment