I am a lot of things. I am a son, a brother, an uncle, and a father amongst many other nouns. In 2014 I was made homeless twice, the last of which happened the last day of 2014. I am now a homeless veteran, son, brother, uncle, human being. I was ashamed to admit this fact bc I didnt want anyone to think any less of me. I dont feel I deserve to be living in a shelter and neither does the other 30 or so other veterans living in whats called transitional housing. The difference between a veteran and someone who did not serve is pretty drastic especially this time of year. The homeless brave Michigans tempermental weather everyday. While us veterans in this facility have a bed and a roof over our heads, there are so many who dont have that much. Yesterday morning we were forced to leave the building for 7 hours due to pesticide being sprayed. If you live in Michigan you know we had a pretty wet and cold storm which dumped snow on everything and everyone outside, then it rained until we were allowed to come back inside. In the past 4 days I can count how many meals Ive eaten with one hand. I could keep going on about how hard this is but Id rather leave everyone reading this with a message; Dont take ANYTHING for granted! Your car thats falling apart, the little food you have in your fridge, your dying cell phone, your bed that isnt quite comfy... All of those things and everything else can be taken away from you so quickly. Remember to love your loved ones and pray for those who have done you wrong. Move past all of the things in your life that you cannot change. Be good to strangers bc you dont know their story or what they went thru to be where they are. Smile, its contagious. Dont live with malice in your heart its a disease that will eat you alive like a rapid uncureable cancer. Reflect every night and remember to always be thankful for even the smallest of things. If your still reading this, pray or think positive thoughts about those less fortunate, trust me there is always someoe less fortunate than you. I personally dont want anyone to feel sorry or bad for me. With the help of organizations helping veterans I have a place to sleep and keep the little bit of things I was able to bring. I also have an amazing family who have offered their homes to me during this winter. Thank you, I know your hearts and I love you for wanting to help. This is obviously my road and my cross to bear alone, otherwise I wouldnt be here. Im grateful and so should you be. Ko
Posted on: Sun, 04 Jan 2015 19:08:57 +0000