The Other Side of the Wall

So close, but totally different worlds, separated only by a concrete wall.

Yesterday some Men from our Redeemer Church in Tulsa made 120 breakfast burritos, fruit, yogurt, and other goodies for the folks from the streets. We do this once a month at The Merchant, a great non-profit serving our homeless friends in the 6th & Peoria area with a free breakfast, haircuts and showers for some, medical and spiritual help, clothing, help with IDs, and friendship. I’d say about 90 or so folks, such as Jake, one of the men I visited with, were there. Jake is a Marine Vet, homeless for over a year, and was just a pleasure to visit with.

As I left and went around the corner, I couldn’t help but notice all the nicely dressed folks eating breakfast at the nice restaurant next door. Two totally different worlds, separated by a concrete wall. How is it that some folks ended up able to pay for and enjoy a nice, leisurely breakfast on one side, but on the other side of the wall, it’s a daily struggle for food, water, clothing, and shelter? What do the folks think of the other people on the other side of the wall? Is this acceptable and right?

It’s such a contrast, and we can do better as a community in getting to know, helping, and loving those on the other side of the wall. That’s what we’ll be doing with Eden Village very soon. And, when I told Jake of our tiny home community coming soon, he really was excited about the possibility of eventually having one as his home and living in a safe, dignified community. We need the support of our entire community to make it happen. Let’s do it Tulsa!