I did yesterday and I think I'm going to make a habit of it. At first I thought it would be a rude thing to ask considering their situation but now I've somehow convinced myself into thinking that this is a viable question. I mean, why not? I think that's one of the mildest questions you could ask a homeless person considering how many questions I actually have for them. I could ask them, how did you end up here? Or, how often do you bathe? Or maybe even, what would you do with a million dollars? I suppose questions like that are a bit more personal and need some warming up to but asking about daily wages seems like a good place to start for me. Sure, they may be caught off guard, perhaps even offended but I think that's nothing compared to amount of guilt they make me feel all the time for not compromising parking money. The worst is when they catch me eating and they're holding up a "I'm hungry" sign. I sort of see it as donating to a cause. Shouldn't you know how much this organization is making if you're investing in it? What if they're making tons of dough posting up at a high volume location like the Alvarado exit and they don't even need my money? I'd rather give it to the older dude who wants to be alone squatting somewhere in Eagle Rock where he's making enough for a churro. And when I say "tons of dough" it's with the understanding that it's relative to the situation of course. I don't know maybe I was wrong to ask but I was feeling a bit feisty at the time and my curiosity got the best of me.
"Can I ask you a question?"
"Sure."
"How much do you make?"
Pause.
"What do you mean?"
"Like, a day... around how much do you make on average... here." (referencing his post)
"Well, it's just about enough to survive."
"So... like... how much is that?"
"Well, it beat's having a real job. I don't like working for anyone."
"So... is it around minimum wage... or more?"
"I don't even know how much minimum wage is."
"It's 8 dollars and hour."
"I just need enough to eat."
Then the light turned green and I drove off with the change I had planned on giving him still clutched in my hand. He never really answered my question. I wasn't sure in his inflection whether I had heard modesty or irritation but it sure made me wonder. A whole list of questions began to compile in my head. How long do you work? If you take a break to go eat and if someone swoops up on your spot are you like "awww... hell nah." I wanted to ask everything but it wasn't worth holding up traffic. Maybe some follow up questions are in order so maybe I'll visit him again. He was a fairly young guy which made me think even more. He seemed to be all there and present so what's his deal? So curious now...
(not the dude. just random picture)
4 comments:
my gut reaction is yes, this is a rude question. but i bet that homeless folks would rather have curiosity directed towards them rather than fear and hostility.
also, ray you got some writing skillz!
Thanks maaaauurene!
I've managed to trick you too. I actually try really hard to make my posts worth the read. It takes me forever to compose one damn sentence but compliments from you makes it worth the while.
Can't wait for your book!
Agree! You can write! Always enjoy your posts. And only you would think of asking a question like that! This is Leny btw.
Most homeless people collect SSI which is around $800. They can also collect GR which means general relief. That is around $200. This however is considered a loan from the government and has to be paid back. My previous job before being a henchman for the farm was working with the homeless. If you really want to know more id love to talk about it. it was a rewarding and frustrating job. and i experienced many many things in my time at my non profit.
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