One of the most frustrating things about what I do is that the people you develop the best relationships with are the most broken. That is just sort of the nature of the beast; after all, the more you have resources and skills, the less likely you are to remain homeless. And those who get out of being homeless (by getting solid work, moving in with family, whatever) seldom have any desire to continue any relationship that reminds them of those days they slept on the street.

So what that means is that the people least able to relate are those who I spend the most time with. And when you see someone ‘make it’, by getting a job and moving into a new, much safer place, you sorta feel a twinge of sadness because you realize that you are not going to see them as much, and eventually, probably not at all. You are excited for them, but a bit sad as well.

Sometimes, it works out. Like this morning, when I saw W– on the sidewalk downtown. We have had long talks. W– is gay, and he and his partner were on the street together almost a year. They have been together a long time and being homeless was hard on that relationship. I don’t know that I helped either of them that much… mainly it was about doing what I am best at, sitting there and doing nothing while they talk.

About two months ago, his partner got a good job, working for the county. And he got W– on, so now they both have good jobs, a good apartment and are paid ahead a month on their rent. It was strange seeing W– today (his day off) shaved and clean, wearing clean clothes. We hugged and talked a while about how it is all going. He is doing really well. I am proud of both of them, and told them so.

I invited them to come eat with us this weekend at a potluck I am participating in. I really hope they show up.