PUBLIC VIEWPOINT: Don't Make Assumptions About Homeless

Sunday, November 18, 2012

This writer has worked with the homeless in one capacity or another for almost 17 years, and the one thing I gleamed most important from my sojourn with the homeless is you can’t make generalized statements about the homeless any more than you can about any segment of society. Good and bad exist in every man and woman and it would be a shame to miss out on the opportunity of getting to know and understand a fellow human being because of a generalized assumption.

There are many who are experiencing hunger and stress. In today’s society there is a fine line between employment and a meal line. These are not people who have been lax or not hardworking, but those because of an economy in chaos have been left to fend for themselves. Many do not have family to depend on. They need help from their fellow man.

I see more and more people coming to churches for help. The churches do a great job, but they can’t help in the way a shelter can. We need a new overnight shelter and more housing for those who are trying to get out of a bad situation.

Are we willing to give time, money and food to those who need the help? Are we able to wash dishes in a church that feeds the poor? Are the businesses that share this Northwest Arkansas bounty willing to share with those who have not been so fortunate? Many in this community are helping above and beyond. But we can do more! I believe if we help just one human being, you are helping balance the need for mercy and justice.

I recall the story of the shepherd who risked his life to save the one in 99 sheep that got away, and brought it back to safety. When the shepherd came back he raised the sheep on his shoulder, rejoicing its return.

Remember in the story, the sheep are not the lost, but those who fail to be good shepherds are lost indeed.

Please see the fi lm I produced and Cameron Magee directed. It is a documentary told through the eyes or the homeless in Fayetteville and why we need an overnight shelter.

Search for “Homeless in Fayetteville” on vimeo.com.

GREG MASHBURN

Fayetteville