The Community of Roots

The Community of Roots
Originally uploaded by nilesemerick.

These faces comprise the community with which I live my life. It was outdated nearly as soon as it was taken, as more people have joined us in our pursuit of the teachings of Jesus.

A new friend

Walking on Pearl Street Wednesday night after a very enjoyable evening at my new favorite coffee shop, Amante, I met Cisco. I assume it is short for Francisco, as he spoke with a Spanish accent, and taught me a few words in Spanish as well.

As I was walking with my friend Annie, Cisco approached us and asked for some spare change. He explained he was in desperate need of some boos for the morning. I appreciated his honesty, though it immediately sent my mind to thinking that I shouldn't give this guy any money to feed his habit. I talked with him for a few minutes, and ended up giving him all the change in my pocket. Was it because I wanted him to "medicate" himself with alcohol? No. Actually, I don't know what my motivation was, but regardless, it showed him that I cared and created space for us to really connect. We talked for nearly 20 minutes and I quickly grew to love this man.

I have had a burden for the homeless for a while, but at the same time Ihave remained somewhat fearful of engaging them in relationship. I believe that the fear stems from a lack of understanding the culture of the streets. I plan to continue stepping out in faith, knowing that Jesus loves these people as much as he loves me, and that he would not be fearful, disgusted, nor too prideful to talk with and relate to these people.

Cisco and I ended our chat with an embrace. He told me he loved me. Regardless of whether or not it was the boos speaking, I looked him in the eye and told him that I loved him too. I felt like I was truly able to show him the love of God that night. And when I told him I loved him, it came from a well deeper than me. I hope to find him and spend more time talking with him. In fact, I would love to get to a place where I could have him over for dinner. Time will tell.

The FlatIrons at 6AM on my way in to work

FlatIrons at 6AM on my way in to work
Originally uploaded by nilesemerick.

Worthy of a second look, or even of pulling off on the side of 36 to capture this image. It was taken nearly 4 weeks ago now, but it is deserving of space here so you can see what I see.