The Word from the Streets - February 26, 2003

What a day it was today. The weather, being cold and rainy, set the scene for our first stop at Peachtree and pine. Whenever the weather is like this, peoples moods are very affected. There were several guys already lined up and lots were filing out of the shelter. Before we knew it, the line was stretched out the whole length of the parking lot.

At the beginning of the line the guys were in a big clump and unwilling to form anything that resembled a line. Once we got the clump through, the line moved beautifully. During the time of the clumping, there was a lot of tension in the air. Let's just say the guys further down in the line and us were not too pleased at what was going on with what the mob was doing up front. I have to say though, it's amazing and beautiful to see how many of our guys really try to take care of us. Even in the thick of it all, I really didn't feel like I was in danger. So many of the guys thanked us for all that we do and that we are so patient when things like this happen. One guy told us that he hasn't ever seen any other group keep the guys so organized. He said, "You guys really are something special...no other group would get so much respect from these guys...thank you so much for your caring." We gave out about three hundred lunches here.

Central park is our park that, we decided today, where we receive Darshan from every Wednesday afternoon. We come out of that park with a deeper sense of our selves and feelings of bliss. This park always holds such jewels for us. Today we talked with our new friend Slim (Daryl). He wanted to tell us his real name, because he said that on the streets you never use your real name. He liked the chance to say who he was. The conversation started with him asking who Ma was. Candika showed him and others a picture of her. With this, the conversation cooked up. He wanted to know about her, about our names, about Kashi Atlanta. He totally got it and actually taught us about interfaith teaching. At times when we're asked about the teaching, we sometimes get quiet and have difficulty expressing ourselves. Lots of times we watch and listen to our Jaya Devi talk about it out here on the streets with the guys. We try to capture what she says. And actually when we start talking, several of us add in and we have a beautiful discussion. I think it is very important to talk about Ma and or the teaching, because you never really know who you're talking to. Your words can change someone's life. Slim wanted us to tell Ma hello and that loved her too!

When we got to Woodruff Park, the guys were already standing there in line. They were cold and wet, and very happy to see us. There weren't too many people there, so everyone got a few lunches each. At this park, there is such an overall feeling of grace. Everyone here is always kind and grateful.

Another beautiful day serving...

Thank you Neem Karoli Baba
Forever grateful,

Sadhu