Authentic sidewalk engagement
So a self-described homeless guy approaches me yesterday, tentative in his ask while I am obviously deep in laptop work cafe side. I immediately flash back to hearing John McKnight’s case for the exchange of gifts, including our stories, instead of the clientization of the so-called marginalized.
He’s slightly taken aback with full eye contact request for his name and story, which he unravels like threads off his worn coat. I thank him for his story and give him some money, which he returns full eye contact thanks, and as he turns to walk on, he turns back and with a taciturn pause, says in a most sincere tone, “You know, I really hate doing this, asking for money. What I really want is work.” The sidewalk turns into a brief brainstorm session, and he makes his way into the neighborhood.
Interesting what authentic engagement evokes.
