What started as a collection of journal entries now awaits readers who are willing to consider the lived experiences of real people, including the author, who have been unhoused. The author calls the book “Humbled by Homelessness”; he could just as easily have titled it “Humbled by Systems that Make People Invisible”. What I learned through this book was how so many of those experiencing homelessness feel invisible, and even just being seen by “the rest of us” would do so much to alleviate the pain. When you see someone on the streets, don’t avert your eyes, don’t roll up your car window, don’t cross the street. Say hi, wish someone a good morning. Just treat them like a person.
It was disheartening to read just how badly the systems that are supposed to help actually do more to rob humans of their dignity and waste money in the process. Just learning that actually housing people costs about 60% less than keeping them homeless was eye-opening.
This book was written by a fellow who attends my church. Or I guess I attend his church, he was there before me. I get to hear his wisdom during Sunday school classes and I am always appreciative of his willingness to share. I appreciate the vulnerability it takes to write and publish a book about so personal an experience as having been homeless.
May we all be willing to listen.
