A couple of weeks ago, on a hot summer day, Ron and I went to distribute water to those on the street.  We asked our homeless friend, Rickey if he’d like to go with us.  We loaded a large ice chest with a couple of cases of water and headed to a downtown laundry mat to pick up our friend.

The sun was hot, the air was humid.  A typical August day in Arkansas, only it wasn’t August it was June.  The heat index was over 100 degrees and it was only noon.  We picked up Rickey and started off on our afternoon journey.   The first woman we saw captivated my attention.  We’ve all seen the scene.  We’ve seen it in movies.  We’ve seen it on tv.  We’ve seen it first-hand.   It is the picture that comes to mind when we think of someone homeless.   A woman was looking through a trashcan, presumably for food.  I know this happens everyday.  We all know it.  We may choose not to see it or not to do anything about it or more often, we (or I at least) feel as though we cannot fix the situation.  We cannot begin to provide the magnitude of resources that one person needs.  But, as we approached her and she turned toward us, Rickey got out of the car and gently approached her.  He handed her a $10 bill and two bottles of water.  He was courteous to her.  She was appreciative.  I observed and felt a bit uncomfortable that I was riding around in an air conditioned toyota and she was looking through a public trashcan for food or whatever.   She smiled, waved, and said “God bless you.”  Rickey got in the car and our journey continued.

It is somewhat incomprehensible to me that in America we have people digging through trashcans.  The communication between Rickey and the woman was kind spirited and gentle.   I later commented to Ron that our world would be a better place if  we all treated one another with the gentleness and kindness displayed between Rickey and the woman.

The 10/20 Project is not a political or religious based organization.  We meet small, immediate needs of those in need.     On this 2010 Independence Day, I am reminded that although we are independent, we are dependent upon others.   The mission of  The 10/20 Project is not to change the world, but by meeting small, immediate needs we do make a positive difference in the lives of individuals.  Consider donating your time and talent somewhere this weekend.  Or, make a donation to The 10/20 Project.  Or, share a bottle of water with someone in need.  It isn’t about them, it is about you.  And when you share what you have it is a win-win for everyone.

Thanks to all who share in The 10/20 Project.