by Duane Carothers
The above question is the main focus of a book that I recently read, titled " Lead... For God's Sake." This question was on my mind quite often during the weekend of January 3rd and 4th. During the course of this weekend, I received a phone call from Bill Young, concerning the weather forecast for the upcoming week. The forecast was calling for overnight temperatures in the single digits ( with sub-zero wind chills), for most of the week. The decision was made to have the Peter Maurin Community Center open to the unsheltered homeless, to stay over night, beginning Tuesday evening.
With this in mind, Bill and I decided to go out Monday evening to notify the homeless of our intent to open the emergency homeless shelter. We visited 2 different campsites ( each with multiple tents and occupants). We, then, decided to head to the main library to look for more homeless people. On the way, we noticed a young man, carrying a blanket, walking near the Federal Building. As we approached, I asked Bill if we should pull over. His reply was, "of course." Bill initiated a conversation with "Jeff," regarding his status, and where he was going to spend the night. We found out that this was his very first night being homeless, and that he intended to sleep outside. He asked if we knew of a park or graveyard near by. He also insisted that he would be "OK," with only that single blanket. We then offered to take him to the Haven of Rest, but he was adamant about not wanting to be around other people.
At this point, Bill and I knew he would not be OK. We knew of a vacant tent, that had been occupied by Bobby Blosser, who had died on Christmas Eve. It was well supplied with blankets and a good sleeping bag. We talked to Jeff about considering this option ( without mentioning that the former occupant had passed away). He finally agreed to go with us to examine the tent, and although a bit scared, he decided to stay in the tent.
As we headed to the library, Bill and I talked about "Divine Guidance," and we got an answer to "Why Do You Do What You Do?," in regards to the Peter Maurin Center and Matthew 8:20.
As a side note, we, have since, talked to Jeff, and Kaela, his girlfriend, who is also living in the tent, along with their dog, "Chomper." They are doing well, and actually love the tent ( we've added a dozen thick blankets) and surroundings. Jeff let us know that he would not have been OK, that first night, and that it was God that directed him to us.
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