Living in the city of Seattle you tend to run into quite a few less fortunate people. People who don't have anywhere to call home, people who are in search of their next meal or somewhere to rest their eyes at night. As horrible as it is to say, 'you get used to it', you actually really do. Every once in awhile someone will really make you realize how good you have it and your heart will sting for a brief moment. Maybe you will give them a few bucks, an apple, whatever, and then move on with your day.
I remember the first time I saw a homeless man. I was a young teenager, outside Nordstrom with my mom in Seattle. I felt so bad for him and started crying on the street. If my memory is correct, I begged my mom to give him some money, I would have done anything to help this man! He could stay in my bedroom, maybe work for my parents in the yard, maybe we could have got him an apartment, anything! I just couldn't believe he didn't have a home. Sadly, I was a bit naive.
I have lived in Seattle for a few years now and see these people on a daily basis. On my drive to work, drive home, lunch break, wandering the sidewalks, at the grocery store, etc., etc., etc. Sometimes someone will look extra special to me, but more often than not, I drive past without paying any attention. (This is actually very eye opening to me that I shove this aside, I need to be better about acknowledging everyone.)
A couple weeks ago I was in the parking lot outside Blockbuster in Seattle, (I know, who goes to Blockbuster anymore?!?! ME!) when this man asked if he could wash the windows on my car for 50 cents. Immediately, without even thinking, I said, 'No, thank you', and walked away. When I got in the store I was appalled by my behaviour, I didn't give that man the time of day. I didn't pay him any attention, didn't look in his eyes when he asked if he could exchange a window washing for 50 cents. He was willing to work, that's what stuck with me. I felt like a cold hearted, selfish, stuck up person who I barely recognize and I sure as heck do not want to be! I went outside, gave him a five and thanked him for offering to help me. He was so happy, it was amazing, he offered to wash my windows again, but I really just wanted to go home and see my husband, dog, house, everything. I just wanted to suck in my life as much as possible and be grateful for everyone and everything. You never know who that guy was before in life, maybe he was someone just like you and me, who knows. I am going to start giving all people a chance before I shut them out. This man was a true eye opener. I am so grateful for him popping into my life. Thank you, Window Washing Man, you might have just changed my life.
xx
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