SCREENING HIGHLIGHT | Homeless But Generous
TEAM | Heartland Nomads
CURRENT LOCATION | Lubbock, TX
We truly do live in a world that’s upside down, at least in the way that I see it. Inspiration comes from the least likely sources; the most giving are the ones with the least to give. Perhaps it’s because those with the least realize that they don’t need what they have and have learned to go without; whereas the privileged cannot imagine what would happen if they had to forgo their daily venti-Frappuccino because the bank account couldn’t handle the stress. The things that we hold dear and comforts we become accustomed to become crutches that keep us from reaching our full potential in the world.
I myself am not exempt from this mentality—at times it takes some serious reality checks and humbling experiences for me to realize where I am in life. Living life as a “nomad” for LiNK, I tend to think that I am capable of living frugally, and that I have given up a lot for life on the road. However, my very first day on the road I was confronted with a simple man who brought all of these illusions down with one conversation; at a time when I was least expecting it.
We pulled up to a church in Lubbock, Texas ready to set up for a presentation, ready to talk and share about the lives of the North Korean people and how everyone could get involved in some way. What I didn’t realize until we arrived is that we were presenting to a particularly intimidating demographic—the homeless. You quickly become aware of what you have when you are surrounded by a group of others who have less than you do. I was unsure of how our presentation would go over, especially at the end when we pass “the Liberty Bucket” asking for monetary donations. What would happen when we asked for money from people who didn’t have a bank account to pull from, or even a home in which to place a piggy bank? What did happen was miraculous—we met Bob.
Bob approached us after the screening and wanted to get involved. He knew that he might not have finances to offer but he did still have his life, his passions, and that he would use them – “I’ve been homeless on and off for over 15 years,” Bob shared with us. “I also know that I’ve got it pretty good. I might be living under a bridge, but I still have rights, a place to sleep, and the opportunity for food. I can still eat and know that I’m alright.” Bob had watched “The People’s Crisis” and instead of seeing a hopeless or overwhelming situation, as others might, he felt empowered. He was able to look beyond the difficulties that he might face, pushed aside the excuses we have heard from countless others who come from much more affluent circumstances and wanted to help.
After talking with him, I found myself feeling extremely humbled, yet inspired. If Bob could envision what he could do and was excited at the prospect of making extreme impact, what more could I do? I wish we could bring Bob on the road with us to speak to others. If the general population could catch the same dream that he has, the same determination to overcome obstacles and make the most of every asset they’ve been given, I can only imagine what we would see in even a very short time.
From the road,
KAYLA ELDIB | Heartland Nomad
