MEET ODIE

I met Odie holding sign asking for help in the shadows of a busy church. I was absolutely astonished at how nearly no one really "saw" us. We talked for an hour and at least 100 people passed by on the sidewalk. 

How many looked our way and smiled? Maybe five.

How many said hello? Exactly one.

How many offered him some assistance? None.

I asked Odie how he felt at being ignored, but he was sadly immune to it. He explained that when you have nothing, you don't take things personally. He doesn't have the energy to be offended or to lose sleep over the judgement.

I also asked what message he'd share inside that nearby church if given the chance, and he offered two fascinating things.

First, he would tell them that he recently found God in prison, and he's genuinely trying to live a better life. He's been sober a few weeks and while he has a long way to go, it's a start. Every addict has to begin somewhere, and he's proud to be clean, even if his journey is just beginning.

Second, he wants to tell people that they should never, ever give up on their dreams. He has big goals of his own to write a book, to inspire people, to start a company. "If I can keep my dreams alive, those people in that church can keep theirs going too."

Odie was extremely thankful for the cards I gave him, and when we said goodbye, he packed up his things and walked toward a hot meal.