I spent a VERY cold night on the streets of Center City Philadelphia in December 2020, at the end of my Leap Year of Firsts, with the homeless. On December 5th, for the first time in my life, I laid on cold wet frozen ground in a torn sleeping bag with a tattered rolled up towel as my pillow. The sound of the nearby highway over head was deafening. The wind crept through the zipper of my cocoon to constantly nudge me awake, as I tried to sleep with one-eye open. The fear of the constant danger that surrounded me was ever present. Mini tent cities of mangled temporary residences filled with the homeless were situated under the adjacent overpasses. I wanted to experience and understand the effects of losing a job – the effects of losing everything. I think of this night often. The experience has stayed with me to provide a unique sense of gratitude, empathy and perspective.
The above experience has changed my perspective. I’m happy because … I have a roof over my head… I know where my next meal is coming from… I have a job… I have people who love me… I have my health … I have a purpose! Many of the people I left on the streets that night do not have any of this. I’m forever grateful for this experience and the change of perspective it gave me.
So, when you are feeling beat up by life and down, Change Your Perspective! Think of the many others that do not have what you have. Instead of … “Ill be happy when…” try… “I’m Happy NOW Because…” of the many blessings you have in your life, as small as they may be.