Perception

Gerald wasn't favored among the community, he was the man with no home or job. The man who would frequent the front of local stores such as Starbucks, holding a sign that said “Anything helps.”

Most people would blow him off, casting nasty glares his way. Some even boldly shouting “Get a job filthy junkie!” But they didn't know Gerald's story like me.

I first met him while he was outside my apartment one night. I asked how he was. He told me he was just trying to get some food for dinner before he headed home. I asked where he lived, and he said “The ol’ Barnes shack.” I offered to buy him some food, then take him home.

During our meal Gerald told me how he was a veteran in the Vietnam war. He told me some horrible stuff that went on, and that he hadn't been the same since he got home. He was diagnosed with major PTSD. He was part of some government programs to help Vets, but that help only extended so far for someone as himself. So the streets had been home for him for many years now.

After that, I made it a point to bring him a hot meal every Sunday night. It was a particularly cold winter this year, so I brought extra blankets too.
Walking into the building I noticed snow everywhere from all the busted windows. I went to his spot, and started to cry. For there he lay, beautifully frozen in place.