Ramadan Day 15: "Its like Gold out here," said the homeless man...
when I gave him a bottle of water on my way to work this morning.
I think I've mentioned that "thirsty is the worst" for me, especially with the weather we've been having lately, so I've been carrying bottles of water with me for the homeless guys I see when I drive to work in the morning. A couple of them have staked out a place by the exit ramp of the freeway, and they seem to rotate who stands there every day. They even leave the "Homeless" sign in a piece of fencing so any of them can use it. They are polite and courteous, and one told me he only comes when he can't pick up "odd jobs" to cover things.
Today's guy had long, dirty stringy hair, and a scruffy "need a shave" look. I've seen him once or twice before, and he seems nice. I asked if his friend was with him today, and he said yes. Fortunately, I had brought two bottles this morning, and was able to give him both. He thanked me, and smiled when I apologized for not having more.
"Don't worry about it," he said. "Its like gold out here."
He really meant it when he said "it was like gold." The man I gave it to yesterday thanked me and told me he would use it to clean the cut on his (very dirty) hand.
Fasting is hard, and while its gotten easier (first week is always the worst!), the sleep deprivation thing (because I'm getting up early, and staying up a little late) gave me "fuzzy brain" yesterday afternoon. I was talking with my husband about it this morning; the homeless guys must be exhausted - having to stay "on alert" while being in uncomfortable places, with inadequate food or drink. Their problem solving resources must be very limited, especially the longer they are out there....
He said it was "like Gold."
We are not rich, but at the moment, I am feeling very humbled by how much I have, and I am grateful.
Halfway done at the end of the day... 
= new reply since forum marked as read
for the homeless people they see, especially with the weather being so hot.
I am embarrassed at how little it is costing me to buy a case of bottled water, and give away one or two a day.
Clean drinking water, especially in the heat -
The man made me feel rich. 
I have much to be grateful for!
