I saw Caleb today. He was alone, Randi and Napoleon were on a different corner. Our conversation didn't go well. I'm not sure why.
He didn't seem to recognize me at first, which confuses me. I was wearing my signature Cubs jacket and I haven't changed my hair. He also didn't seem to want to talk. The news he shared wasn't good -- he hasn't worked more than a few days since August. Consequently, they lost their apartment and are back to sleeping in shelters. They hope to have enough money set aside "before November 1" for a new tent. That's all he seemed to want to share, so I didn't press.
As I dropped a $5 into his cup, I asked how Napoleon was, and he said, "huge." But he didn't smile. I squeezed his shoulder, asked him to tell his family I said "hi," and then I was on my way.
They are in my prayers.
These are the thoughts and observations of me — a woman of a certain age. (Oh, my, God, I'm 65!) I'm single. I'm successful enough (independent, self supporting). I live just outside Chicago, the best city in the world. I'm an aunt and a friend. I feel that voices like mine are rather underrepresented online or in print. So here I am. If my musings resonate with you, please visit my blog again sometime.
Oh no! I'm so sorry to hear things aren't going well for them. How odd that the vibe was off.
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