“I’ve seen people turn their heads and quickly turn away, like a newborn baby it happens every day” lyrics from song “Paint it Black” by the Rolling Stones

Today, we had the privilege of serving 20 people.

• We did not get to see many of our friends today because of the rain.  We met a couple of new friends today (James, Jose).  They both were happy for our $10 bill/$10 Dunkin Donuts card/prayer card.  With the heavy rain socks, underwear, tee shirts were most welcome.  We brought along winter coats which were really needed.

• We ran into our friends (Jay, Annie, Tim).  The change in weather puts their living conditions in a different perspective.  We still have conversations with our friends about making a change which deep down really scares them.  I reminded them of a line I heard years ago.  When the pain of living like this becomes greater than the pain of making a change, only then can we begin entrance into a new life, through God’s grace.  These discussions bring up a lot of soul searching and sadness.  As we enter the holiday season, they remain away from family and friends and loved ones.

• One of our friends (Shane) kept apologizing for the previous Saturday that became a chaotic scene outside a convenience store.  I told him there is no need for an apology.  This is a by-product of living on the street; every day becomes Groundhog Day – get up and hit the street with either a sign or a cup relying on a stranger’s generosity.  It’s sad seeing our friends standing on the corner cold and wet with lifeless eyes.  We tell them we love them and pray for them.

• For a brief moment when we meet up with them, we are able to bring a little bit of life into their eyes.  But as we drive away, we always worry about them; we pray God will watch over them.

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“In my distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and set me free”.  Psalm 118:5

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God Bless,

Claire and Shaun Teed and Tito

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