I pride myself in being a compassionate person, and enjoy the various volunteer opportunities I have participated in throughout the years. Communities in Schools is one organization I have been able to provide volunteer hours to, and I greatly admire the work they do. Their organization liaisons have filled me with life-long knowledge, much of which has raised my awareness as I proceed within the Renton community. My increased attention to community individuals has caused me to recognize particular individuals in familiar locations. I have seen one individual for years around the community. At times he is often expressionless, has been seen sleeping on the grass at the local park and near freeway entrances. He is always walking alone while carrying numerous bags with the vibrant red bulls-eye known to represent the Target store. I admit he has aroused my curiosity, and as my children now know, if I have not seen him in a while I will voice the question I have asked numerous times “I wonder where he is at today?” In my mind, I think I want to know who he is.
One lesson received from Communities in Schools is regardless of the situation an individual or family may find themselves in, everyone still has their pride and this must be respected. I carry this with me on a daily basis. On a recent outing I was enjoying with my daughter at the local Gene Coulon park I noticed someone else putting this in to practice as well. While sitting in Kidd Valley, waiting for my food to be prepared and glancing out the window on what was turning in to a beautiful day I noticed the mysterious gentleman. He was walking alone once again, appearing to take in the beauty of Lake Washington as we all were. Families were strolling by and as I watched him, I suddenly realized during the years I had observed this individual, never had I noticed him approaching anyone in an attempt to ask for anything. Continuing to watch from my seat, while chatting with my daughter we shared a few laughs. I admit I felt some guilt watching the gentleman slide onto a bench at a picnic table alone. I am one that believes everyone has a story, and had wondered many times upon seeing him walk the Renton streets what his personal story was. Who was his family? Where were they? Did he have someone that could help him if he needed it? The list went on and on. It was then that I saw a sight that captivated my attention and melted my heart.
A gentleman that had been inline within the restaurant several minutes before took the food tray that was handed to him, put his shades on and walked outside towards the elderly gentleman that still remained seated at the picnic table with his bags. Though his head was turned towards the water continuing to take in the scenery the sound of someone nearby caused him to turn. As he approached the table, the young gentleman carefully slid the tray before the gentleman. Glancing at the meal placed before the elderly gentleman gave a grateful bow. Returning the bow, as quickly as he appeared with the meal the other man turned on his heels and returned inside the restaurant to enjoy his provisions. It was in that moment that I was reminded of something. While performing volunteer tasks through the years I had often felt frustrated for not being able to do more. But, a gentleman in the park reminded me that while things may appear silent, others are continuously battling the challenge as well.
