Yesterday, after Chandler and I said our goodbyes to Honey, we started out on what was to be our longest day of Walking since we got back on the road. As we settled into the rhythm of the morning, we passed a food trailer with this silly caricature on the back, and since it made me giggle to myself, I thought I’d share it with you.
A few minutes later, I walked by this lovely community garden and orchard, overflowing with the early summer’s bounty. It made me feel good to think of a community of people growing vegetables and fruit and sharing the work and the the benefits of it with one another. A little later still, I came to a school with several young people standing outside talking and laughing, and I found myself feeling both pleased and sorry for the sign in front for the school. Pleased by the stand against hate, and sorry that hate permeates so much of our culture today.
Near the end of our day, I stopped to take a picture of this tent, and I was approached by a man who asked why I was taking the photograph. I explained that I was amazed by the number of people who seem to be living in Portland (not to mention other cities) in tents tucked up into the hillsides. I also explained what I’m doing, and asked if he would be willing to talk with me. Over the next forty five minutes, I had an incredible conversation with Jason and Samantha and their two children. They, like many others, lost the home they were renting when Jason lost his job due to downsizing in his company. They have been living in this tent for about six months now, and every day, Jason looks for work. As we talked, I was aware of the relaxed nature of all four of them, and I spoke to it. Samantha said that over the time they’ve been in the tent, they have learned so much about themselves, and that they are grateful to have each other. They don’t believe they will be tent living forever, and they feel hopeful that Jason will be able to get a job soon. The children were giggling and playful, and they kept asking me questions about Chandler, as she patiently received the pets they showered upon her. I thanked Jason and Samantha for their willingness to speak with me, and because they aren’t legally able to be living where they are, they asked that we not take a picture together. As I walked away, I was aware of a flood of emotion. And, I was grateful for these four lovely people who gave me a glimpse into their lives and into the way they find Peace in such a difficult situation.
With these two and their children, I was definitely a student in their Walk for Peace.