“
There is a real simplicity and earthiness to the streets. They don’t need our
masks.”
-Edwina
I
am struck and in awe often of the quick transparency and honesty I see consistently in many faces on the streets.
Humanity
in some of the most raw of forms, vulnerability, weakness and true genuine
exposure of self.
There
really are no masks, it’s all out in the open, not much can be hidden.
The true realness of people intrigue me, challenge me, scare me, and mystify me.
It
is beauty, something to honor, receive as a gift and learn from, that I am sure
of.
I am drawn in…
His
scent stings the nostrils of those around him, as he ambles his way through the
crowd, to plop down beside me on the streetcar.
Eyes are yellowed and crusted, clothes filthy and ragged, open sores splatter
across his face.
lanky arms reveal a serious deep gash, noticeably untended too.
In his own world. Stumbling and absentminded.
Resting head on kneecaps, then chin upon elbows, he sneaks a peek at me squinting
slightly.
Few
words exchange, before he leans in close to shake my hands.
I
inwardly recoil.
He
is hard to take in visually. I am unsure of how to care for this young man, I
don’t have the answers in the moment, I don’t know what he needs.
I
am aware of his craving for attention and compassion.
Before I can form another thought,
He
bids me farewell, and maneuvers his way through the crowd,
Bumping
into most, ignored by many.
He reveals obvious weakness and awareness of his poverty, yet a strength somehow to keep going.
With
a loud yelp she greets me with childlike love,
Arms
slung around my shoulders in a bear hug.
Expressive
and full of words
Desire to share and be listened too
“I
love you” topples out of her mouth in many moments.
She
has a certain freedom to her. Free to be herself, to dance, to play, and to be
silly.
Confidence
that others will be ready to delight, and affirm.
Her
face soon crumples, she softly whimpers.
Now she feels deeply, her tears and emotions are real.
She
sits close to me, laying her head upon my shoulder.
Defeated,
and overwhelmed.
She is comforted.
She shows her want to love, and be loved in return.
“
I really like you, I like being friends with you.”
He
states in a matter of fact way.
Sharing
with a bashfulness, but full of
meaning he communicates expectantly.
He
is sweet, tenderhearted, innocent in his desire for friendship.
His
oblivion to social ques is endearing.
He
communicates with the simplicity of a small child.
What
a depth to his words and his heart.
He shows authentic loyalty, and joy in finding a friend.
Rough, sprouted beard tickles my face, as he beckons a hug.
He
offers an abundance of care for those around him.
It
comes in forms of bumping fists, gracious gazes, exuberant hugs, verbal
affirmation, tenderness with many, and a presence full of warmth. He loves
through deep soul unrest, as he grieves painfully. His eyes quick to fill with
tears, words describe his hurt, emptiness, struggles and
challenges. In the midst of this he pours forth care for others.
He shows a stunning humility, and a huge heart.
He is big and tall in stature, looks of intimidation at first glance.
Eyes full of an intense focused nature, caught deep in thought, seemingly unapproachable.
Until that is you make eye contact, his small smile is coaxed quickly out of him.
He creates a hospitality better then most, as he gives you his full attention, asks life questions, and responds with a soft spoken voice, that can only bring ease.
Interesting thoughts, and watery eyes as he speaks.
He causes others to hang on his every word.
He is a man who struggles profoundly, yet loves unreservedly.
What
strange, unexpected and random treasures I am finding among friends, as with
such bravery, and trust they go through life without a mask. With unusual openness, acceptance and love in their lives.
I am being taught as they share themselves with me, and welcome close relationship.
