Today was an especially emotional, and trying day for me as I fed the homeless under the viaduct. It was beautiful, but difficult if that makes sense. I was INCREDIBLY succesful in the small clothing drive I organized. Many, many kids, and adults are now in their new winter coats, and gloves thanks to all those who donated. I had one little girl who will be 3 in March come with no socks or shoes. We quickly wrapped her in blankets, and I was able to hold her, and put on her new Tinkerbell socks, and pink boots, along with a coat that she gladly put on, and LOVED! Her brothers' name is Sebastion, he's 7 years old. I gave him a bunch of Braydons old clothes, and snuck in a few more than I was supposed to. Sebastion was awfully quiet at first, barely even whispering as I spoke to him. I think he was confused by all the treasures coming his way. The mother and father were probably some of the nicest and gentle people I have ever met. I was able to talk with them, (yes, they let me leave my post so that I could get this family prepared for the cold). Sebastion and I talked about Christmas, and his favorite tv characters. He really wouldn't talk much at all, and I felt like I just wasn't earning his trust in any way, shape or form. After I went back to work, he came up to me, and said, "I know who my favorite character is, it's SPONGEBOB". I was floored, was he talking to me? Was he smiling at me??!! After that Sebastion didn't leave my side, talking and laughing and fist pumping with me! He asked me if I would be there next Sunday, and told me he was excited to see me, and he couldn't wait. I then started asking him what kind of toys he likes, and things he likes to do. He likes books, and cars. Trust me, I will come bearing gifts for this little guy, and his sister next Sunday. How could I not? He had me wrapped around those cute little fingers of his the moment he told me about Spongebob. I looked over, and saw his mom and dad both tearing up, and watching our interaction. I went over to them, and wrapped my arms around both of them, telling them they will get through this.... They were incredibly joyful, and grateful. As they were about to leave, Sebastion ran to me, and gave me a hug, and a kiss on the cheek. I hugged the rest of them, and turned around with tears in my eyes, brokenhearted, and touched. One of the men that helped form the organization asked me if I was okay, I sobbed and said, "no, no, I'm not okay". How could I be, Sebastion and his family were walking 4 blocks in the snow to go to the homeless shelter they were staying at. I so wanted to run after them, and do whatever I could. I cried for a really long time, I couldn't stop the tears, and as I looked around many more were crying with me, deeply touched by what they just saw.

I know I can't save the world, I know that I can't save them all, and that some of the homeless that I feed, are they because of the choices that they made... I just like being with them, I love the feeling of surrounding myself with people not just wanting, but doing things for people. My spirit is being fed. I wish I could do more, but just being there helps.... ask my new friends, they will tell you the same thing....

Sebastion, I can't wait to see you next Sunday, so bring your fist pumps, and hugs! Thank you for your kindness, and for being my new friend, I promise Santa is going to come and see you this year, and it will be magical!!

Love,
Melanie