Relational Poverty

I just finished reading Under the Overpass, an account of time spent living on the streets of six US cities by the author, Mike Yankoski, and a colleague. In this he states, “Though we were there for only five months, Sam and I felt this relational poverty strongly. Addressing this relational need is one of the most difficult and essential aspects of caring for those on our streets.” I absolutely agree with this and feel the same longing from our friends experiencing homelessness. They are often SO appreciative when you treat them with respect and compassion – just listening to them and treating them like human beings rather than scourges on society. To see them emerge from their shells and smile is a tremendous blessing.