Are We Unintentionally Hurting Homeless People?

What do human beings desire most? To be acknowledged, to feel important. I tell you, if you really want to make someone feel good, exhort them and make them feel important.

What happens if one is deprived of this? Often times, the results are depression, suicide, and/or psychotic behavior.

Have you ever heard of the Seattle freeze? It is a term used for seattleites being standoffish, cold distant, and not trusting. Did you know that Seattle has one of the highest suicide rates? Is it really the gloomy weather that is causing this?? hmm..

Have you ever walked/drove by a homeless person and completely ignored them? I have… What I wonder is, does this ignoring actually exacerbate their condition?

What I promise to myself is, to acknowledge each and every homeless person I see even if it is simply smiling at them. Just acknowledging that they exist. Many homeless individuals say that feeling of nonexistence is what hurts them the most. Not a lack a food or other things, just a deprivation of self importance.

What do you think?

Peter