“Unhomeliness” is usually used to refer to the odd feeling of being part of two cultures, but not really feeling comfortable in either. According to one of my Literature classes, it is a state of in between.

Earlier this week I saw someone who looked quite familiar with “unhomeliness.” He was sitting on the corner in a light grey jacket and a red and white blanket. His face was completely covered and he had black gloves. It was 18 degrees outside and snowing and the cars were passing him like he was just another blade of glass under the snow.

That man suffers from “unhomeliness.” He is part of the world, which houses millions of people, but his world kicked him out of the house he had onto the streets. He doesn’t quite belong anywhere. He could also be called homeless.

I looked for something to give him, but I didn’t have food or even cash in my car. Instead, all I could do was offer up a prayer. I’ve volunteered at a homeless shelter before, but that was in another city that I knew better. I couldn’t even direct him to one. Instead, I had to drive past like I didn’t care.

Last year, there were about 1500 people who are homeless in my city and the surrounding areas. Some of them have gotten help and sought shelter and food and in some cases, employment, but many of them are still in that state of in between.

I know it is difficult to give things away to people you see on the street. If you give them money, they might buy alcohol, but at least they will be in a warmer place for a few minutes. You’re not brave enough to slide your car window down or to walk over to them, but when you do gather your courage, you will not only feel better but you will have helped another human being. And there’s legitimate excuses like not having anything at all to give (even if they are not the best excuses).

But remember, even the smallest thing helps.