Friday, February 27, 2009

Hungry and homeless?

Hungry and homeless

I took this photo back in July. It was on State Street in Chicago and my daughter and I were in the city for the morning. We had brought a sack of food with us and still had quite a bit left over after we had finished eating, so I gave what was left to a homeless man at State and Madison.

We passed this girl several blocks south and my suspect-o-meter went off. She looked too well groomed and dressed to really be in need. A nice jacket lay nearby in case the morning air got too chilly. It was slung over a fairly large backpack. She sported a nice set of shades and was probably trying to conceal an iPod. And the sign - neatly lettered, with swirlies, no less. And she was working a Sudoku puzzle. What homeless person does that?

I'm now approaching my sixth month of unemployment. And I'm not as judgmental as I was back on that July morning in Chicago. These times have created a whole new class of the homeless. And that includes people with nice shades and who know how to work a Sudoku puzzle.

Photograph © 2009 James Jordan.

3 comments:

Dawning Inspiration said...

I so hear you.... times are certainly different and scary.

I'm facing unemployment myself as I just got a layoff notice.

I just said a prayer for you and will continue to keep you in my prayers that you find a great job soon.

Anonymous said...

Your observations are enlightening. I would have probably thought the same. Your point is well taken.

I hope your situation with employment improves soon.

jeff said...

It may also show a possible link to playing Sudoku and oncoming unemployment. It is addicting! By the way, I like the new look of the blog.