Real People

I have no pictures to show. Just a story to tell. 

I told a friend last night, I was in between waters when I wrote about that dining experience I had the other day. I want to write something great about the restaurant and yet I feel guilty because I know that many of us are also suffering. In between my seemingly glamorous schedule last week, I was in between conversations with people who need help. 

Back in 2008, Peter introduced me to an organization that basically help the needy. I know that's how usually it is, but I never realized how it's going to affect me until this morning. 

I regularly check messages for the organization twice or thrice a week and report it to the head. This week, I had two people I personally called and found out about what is it that they need. 

The lady asked assistance for move-in to an apartment and good thing, we will be able to help her. I was actually feeling a bit pissed because she woke me up with a phone call this morning. She called me thrice just  to be sure somebody from the group is meeting up with her today. So, she's been attended to and I hope she gets the help she needs.

I thought my task will be over until I realized I haven't called the other person who  needs help. I called him yesterday and forgot to get back to him. And so, I did. His voice was so low and in less than thirty seconds of the phone call, he just burst into tears. He's losing his home. He's accepted it but he's got no job. No family except his mother who he wants to make sure will be alright in the middle of this. Help is on the way for this guy and I hope he heals emotionally too. I wish I can give more details but the rest of his story has to remain confidential.

Sometimes, we think, people in America are not suffering. That everything here is a bed of roses. But little do people know we're like any one of the people in the world. People here are just luckier because they get help somewhere. There's a pinch in my heart now that makes me realize to live a simple life. My life is. Nothing is grand in mine, but living in solidarity with them sometimes ease my own pain. It always reminds me that my worries are simple bites that can be easily washed with the sweet presence of my family. 

As for the guy, I told him not to lose hope. That's the best I can do, listen and say those few words as I know it won't suffice for all the pain he's into right now. I can only get help for him and pray for him tonight that he gets a job soon.