This entry originally in July, 2007
I went to early church this week and sat with Bill, a homeless guy I met last week at church (see picture and entry from June 29th).
Bill is a gentle soul, 58 years old, a vietnam veteran and disabled from a stroke. I spent about 30 minutes after the service talking with him, asking about his week. It was very touching, he said he appreciated me talking with him and listening to him.
He had on the "new" shoes on that he bought from last week and a clean shirt. He was able to stay in the Salvation Army shelter during the week until last night when he slept under a bridge. I gave him the cash I had, about $75, which mainly came from the "Trunkslammers" winnings. An approporiate use for it.
During the service, there was a time for the Lord's Prayer. He recited it by heart using the "trespasses" wording instead of the more current "forgive our debts" which I thought was interesting. Bill is a very spiritual person, he expresses a lot of faith in Jesus and faith that his life will improve.
Bill says he wants to start a lawn business and wants to save up for a lawn mower and weed eater. I really don't think that is practical with his stoke injury but I am going to find out how to help someone like this. He is a good person.
We talked about how he got to Orlando, he has been here for 9 years. He moved here with his wife but she died a few years ago from leukemia.
We walked down the street and he asked me if I would like to have a soda, I said sure. He pulled out the cash that I gave him and handed me $2. I did not refuse. He wanted to buy me something so I let him. I thought he wanted to go to a coffee shop.
I gave him a ride to the homeless shelter on Central. It is a scary looking place. I will see him next week at church.
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