Homeless conditions destroy person’s sense of responsibility

Tuesday, Feb. 10, 1998 | 10:50 a.m.

In response, I'd like to note that I see many homeless people at an outreach food office. A large percentage are not able-bodied, few have respect for themselves, and dignity is a fragile, damaged feeling.

Homeless people have had to learn to accept harsh conditions. Sense of responsibility is destroyed as one fights for simple survival. Many are ill, physically and mentally. Unlike you and me, they have come to accept less-than-clean surroundings.

Is the staff expected to be maids and butlers? Yes, to an extent. Volunteers and motivated employees gladly accept certain unpleasant and difficult chores in order to lend a helping hand to less fortunate people, because they care. They do not judge or criticize, only offer help.

There is an ancient Indian saying, "Do not judge a man until you have walked in his moccasins from the new moon until the full moon."

Lori Thomas

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