I am very fortunate to live in a small beach town that is nestled along the alcoves of a foothill. The landscape is dotted with cottage homes, sandy white shores, and bold red flowering vines along winding paths that lead to intimate beaches. It’s lovely. Since I moved here last year these sights have become as familiar as the many faces I see each morning on my walk. Among them are a handful of homeless men and women who have become to me, part of the small town’s charm. They remind me of life in its greater sense.
In the morning, I go to Starbucks and the cashier hands me two croissants and a hot cup of tea. The second pastry is for the weathered man with the disheveled gray hair who sits outside the door with a sign. He smiles at me when I greet him, sincere, father-like in his poise. Something about this man is graceful to me. He is part of the landscape, part of our humanity. We are both wearing Nike shoes–although likely from different means.
The contrasts and similarities of life are everywhere and can help us to maintain a balanced view. They keep us attached to the vulnerabilities of our humanity and perhaps a reminder of the need for kindness, compassion, and a smile exchanged between strangers who are by nature related.
Warmly,
Dawn