Spirit revived in another part of town

Drove across town to make a donation at the Union Gospel Mission. I admit I was a little scared because I’m not that tall and went alone and my adrenaline was pumping. It turned out that the 30 minutes that I was in the Downtown Eastside, more people —complete strangers—offered kindness, Happy New Years wishes, friendly wishes and thoughts than I ever hear in a year in my own “wealthy” Curmudgeonly neighborhood. Thank you, you gentle souls, your friendly spirit was like water in my oasis of isolation and silence in my area. I won’t forget this day, possibly the kindest one all year, and will be coming back to donate again soon. You all showed me something priceless today. Happy New Year and let’s emanate love to each other.

6 Comments

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Its funny that

Dec 28, 2020 at 1:52pm

we expect the worst from some people based on this perception of their worth and value to society. But in my experience, the poor are often more generous, more kind and and frankly, more fun than the wealthy people I know.

19 4Rating: +15

"There was a man who gave so much they called him mad

Dec 28, 2020 at 7:16pm

But the more he gave, the more he had." - John Bunyan 'Pilgrims Progress' ....................... "Live for yourself, you will live in vain, live for others you will live again." - Bob Marley 'Pass it On'

10 4Rating: +6

Money

Dec 28, 2020 at 7:29pm

It can’t buy class. It can’t buy compassion, empathy, or basic humanity. The saying “money is the root of all evil” is usually true.

14 8Rating: +6

Ummm

Dec 29, 2020 at 10:38am

It's weird that you are surprised when other people turn out to be just like you. You think black dogs are surprised when brown dogs get zoomy with them?

4 7Rating: -3

True

Dec 30, 2020 at 9:25am

I work with drug users and the mentally ill everyday from the DTES. I was appalled when a friend wanted to cross the street to avoid a rough looking person. They are kind and caring people who generally wouldn’t hurt anyone.

5 3Rating: +2

ooshpick

Dec 31, 2020 at 8:03am

great friendly community. volunteered teaching yoga at the carnegie. lots of seniors, Chinese Canadians, addicts, young people, poor people, people who like the diversity. also have a friend in an sro. whenever i go to visit him i meet a lot of cool people. he is a long term addict and great community member.

4 7Rating: -3

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