I Met A Family……

I met a family, a family of two

Each day they rise in the darkness, allowing them time to prepare and travel to their job

Accepted by some, ignored by others

They carry on knowing their job has sustained them throughout the years

With regard, they stop to greet strangers with their smiles and then

return to their jobs

They don’t hold cardboard signs asking for empathy in the pursuit of cash

They ask for nothing

Yet share their change with children who wait in line at the neighboring Salvation Army

They do not consider themselves eligible to visit the local food bank

With conviction they forage and scavenge through containers left out along the shopping strip

seeking what other felt worthy of disposal.

Respecting their community, they never travel into neighborhoods disrupting containers

Their job remain on the shopping strip

Regarded by shopkeepers they are welcomed into the stores

Not expected to fill up a shopping cart

But an understanding they have come in from the cold

Shopkeepers do not gawk at their appearance

But do find them to ensure that the coffee bar has a warm cup for this family

The shopkeeper knows the story of this family

And with pride brings it forth in detail.

They arrived with Missionaries, a lifetime ago, a Father, Mother, Sister and Brother

They honored this country for allowing their entrance and faithfully vowed to never dishonor the gift bestowed up them.

They shared responsibility for the care of their Autistic son and brother allowing little time for continued education.

Never seeking assistance they found work, perhaps that others would not do.

Their unquestionable faith sustained them following the unimaginable deaths of their father and mother.  Killed during a robbery, while working at a convenience store, all for $50.00.

They grieve in silence

Honoring their parent’s wishes, brother and sister work side by side each day of the week, each pushing their own buggy, with pride and conviction.

Regardless of the weather they forage and scavenge and sort with a destination for everything

They wait while others pass, knowing their target will be achieved by day’s end.

Never too tired to greet others with a smile

Never asking for anything in return.

No one is sure where they call home
Shopkeepers have asked and volunteered various shelters for their consideration

They always accept with great regard the shopkeeper’s generosity and time, but soon are found pushing their buggies to their next stop.  They depart with a wave and a commitment to meeting again tomorrow.

I met a Family