It is reported that at least 200,000
Canadians experience homelessness in a calendar year, many of which
experience it either regularly or over an extended period of time. (1)
In a population of approximately 34 million that doesn’t seem like much,
especially when calculated as a percentage – 0.59%. However, the fact
that the numbers aren’t staggering doesn’t justify a reason not to try
and do something about it.
There are many ways for us all to be
involved in combating homelessness. Volunteering our time at a homeless
shelter, donating food or clothing to charitable organizations geared
towards providing for the homeless or even just choosing to give to an
individual that you pass on the street are all easy ways to help out.
Three german students decided to be a little more creative in how they
chose to help out a homeless man and his reaction both during and after
their act of kindness make the entire experience even more heartwarming.
Check it out:
The element of this video that I
particularly enjoyed is the awareness that it drew towards how little
notice or attention we are inclined to give to the homeless. Whether it
be because of our own self-preoccupation or a programmed judgement or
fear towards them, far too many of us regularly choose to steer clear of
the less-fortunate, often going as far as even doing our best to avoid
eye contact. Once the element of the performance was added the situation
transitioned from an avoidable bother to a desirable form of
entertainment. Suddenly passersby were by choice becoming onlookers and
even became more willing to donate to the cause.
What To Take From This Video
Let this video serve as a reminder to
you the next time you cross the path of a homeless individual on the
street. Whether or not you are in a financial position to donate, at
least be aware of how you find yourself inclined to view them. Work on
breaking down any preconceived judgements and replace it with the love
and respect that you would hope to receive if you ever found yourself in
their situation.
We at Collective Evolution are scheduled
to become more active in our community in the coming months and hope
that you will too. Be sure to stay posted for both video footage and
written summaries of the various ways that we choose to get involved and
be an even more active part of creating change on the planet.
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