Part One — Who are they?
This is Dean — my somewhat more remote neighbour. He’s a forest dweller with a unique story and creative disposition about this rudimentary lifestyle.
We met for the first time yesterday while I was out walking in the woods close to where I live. We talked about some of the challenges he faces, what he does, and things he wants to do.
Just imagine finding yourself in a situation where you or a loved one live somewhere in a remote location without modern amenities for comfort and security/safety.
What would it be like to not have access to a toilet, shower, or even running water?
How would you prepare your meals? How do you stay warm? Would you feel safe?
There are obviously various reasons that motivate or even force someone into this or a similar dilemma.
It’s easy to conclude that there are shelters and other services for “these people“ and that’s where they should go, but that reasoning doesn’t take into consideration each person’s unique circumstances, perceptions, and the resulting actions that they take.
Not all of those individuals that we would define as homeless can be put in the same category or be defined by unified attributes and characteristics.
It’s great to realize that there’s now such a concern and more resources than ever for those that experience homelessness for whatever reason.
In our great country — as a prosperous and considerate society, I believe we are evolving to be more understanding, compassionate, and helpful than ever before.
However, I also believe there’s still a lot of need and opportunity to innovate improved practices that help ensure the well-being of this unique sector of the marginalized.
I have some ideas of what I’d like to do and want to inspire others to consider how we be more inclusive in our quest for the equality of everyone’s wellbeing.
