I never thought I’d be so concerned about a homeless guy, or want to blog about him! Not at this stage of my life. But … as most of you know, the defendants in Marc’s murder case were recently homeless at the time of the crime. The main defendant is in prison now but the lesser defendant is homeless again after a stretch of living with a family member.
In the Christian or non-Christian circles I live in we don’t talk about the homeless. Even tho there are homeless all around most cities these days, my family or friends rarely ever speak of them. If one of my family had a homeless child they’d probably not talk of him. That’s how either ‘taboo’ the subject is or how un-caring the homeless issue is in our homes.
Personally, it would be a shame if a family member was homeless. A person is not to be tossed out but loved even thru tough times, unless there’s total rebellion or violent behavior towards self or others. They should always be treated as if they are just as important as any other member of the family.
The idea of being homeless always terrified me. I used to think it was dirty, or terrifying to be so desperate! While it’s sad, it’s also a dangerous lifestyle ….. I now know that in a deeply personal way. However, some of the stigma was taken off their plight after I served in a couple homeless ministries few years back and saw up close that some in that lifestyle were hurting on many levels, or abandoned …. it wasn’t about people just being ‘lazy’ or unable to get a job. I’m much more cognizant now of the gentrification of neighborhoods and how it affects the elderly, minorities. I’m aware of the scarcity of good jobs, and how many youth feel hopeless in today’s world.
It’s a mixed bag why some end up on the streets. I’ve read info in National Homeless Agency publications, Oregon State statistics and Los Angeles homeless resources. Aside from Vet’s, and families, there’s youth who’re physically, emotionally or sexually abused and they flee homes to save themselves. Some youth leave cause they’re rebellious, or going to seek their fortune in music, or live in a commune.
Many kids self medicate at home just to handle the family strife, and are told to leave. Instead of understanding their child has dyslexia or a learning disorder and are wired that way, parents accuse their child of being lazy, when kids are just confused about why they can’t keep up with others. Some parents are ashamed of their child, it’s a sad commentary on this enlightened America.
The crime against Marc was sadly mostly a huge misunderstanding of sorts …. neither of the defendants knew Marc, and the two defendants had only known each other 3-4 days. But society doesn’t forgive or forget murder so easily. People with a strong conscience have a hard time dealing with violence, it’s normal to feel repulsed by murder. Our laws in general don’t look at ex-felons the way God does, or the way the felon does in his heart, if he’s truly repentant.
I’ve befriended the lesser defendant Wesley as I can’t let the welfare of the offenders be ignored. Who knows where they would be now if not for the crime? I saw God work in this tragic life event at every turn, every area of concern, so I’m a total believer in the legacy of working with the defendants! It may sound weird, but I can’t express how grateful I am that we got such nice, penitent defendants! Normal guys not sick, soulless, criminal types!
In some ways, Wesley’s better off it seems as he’s now more cognizant of who he is, both boys have been so broken by the crime, and done lots of souls searching. I believe they know God but they are overwhelmed …. shame can do that. Andrew, the main defendant, isn’t using heroin now like he used to. His parents still have a son who’s alive.
It’s depressing to think of Wesley out there sleeping in some place in the cold while the rain pours down in Portland, having to stay awake most of the night to avoid the violence that stalks in the night hours.
A couple months ago he told me, ‘what did I ever do to deserve someone so nice as you?’ That was touching, I was glad he was appreciative …. but I did think it was sad that he didn’t have a life where he can have normal family, friends, fulfilling goals. Sometimes God just reaches out and reminds me of the promises He’s told me are on this journey
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Below is Rob Reed’s song, ‘Pauls Lament’. I think it describes how many times we must walk that long mile feeling totally overwhelmed with a calling but still full of vision –
Well said. Every person has a different story, but all need love, care and second chances.
Diane, you are a true believer in Christ and his teachings. The forgiveness you’ve shown to both defendants is admirable, you truly are an amazing woman.