"Even though my experiences with the Bread of Life were positive, the streets themselves were not. Frustration, fatigue, dismay, and anger were felt mainly when dealing with the mainstream population. People in general, while speaking magnanimously of the homeless issue, were betrayed by their own actions. There were public places where I was unwelcome... not due to ill behavior or uncleanliness, but because I carried my meager belongings on me in a backpack.
The fatigue factor was probably the worst aspect of being homeless. There is so little rest to be had. Homeless people are constantly shooed away from anywhere that they could possibly relax and get away from the elements. Homeless shelters, while stretched to their limits, allow little relaxation for the homeless to get away from the day's heat or cold. Because of the hours of operation, there is so much time spent waiting in lines for various things there is little time to actually rest. Once you are bedded down it's late and then you've got to get up early to start the process all over.
I found out about Bread of Life through another homeless man. He told me of a place where food, showers, and a place to sleep were available. My impressions of the Bread of Life were positive, and admittedly, one of the most influential times of my life. I learned that it's okay to give of oneself. Whether the giving be money, time, possessions, or life's insights, giving to others makes you feel good about yourself.
The Art Project, Houston was WONDERFUL! The program, while probably not for everyone, offered me an artistic release. From the directors to the volunteers, I was given the tools and challenged to be creative. The program allowed me to open up as an artist and use different mediums to convey thoughts, emotions, and/or physical hardships or pleasures.
The interactions with the staff and other homeless involved in The Art Project, Houston is an experience I'll never forget. There is genuine love in abundance. There is virtually no selfishness; it's about giving, helping, guiding, and encouraging others to be better than they themselves think possible.
I am most grateful for the life lesson that it's okay to give of oneself to those less fortunate. I'm also grateful for the art lesson that art is not defined and definite, that it's okay to paint outside the lines."
The fatigue factor was probably the worst aspect of being homeless. There is so little rest to be had. Homeless people are constantly shooed away from anywhere that they could possibly relax and get away from the elements. Homeless shelters, while stretched to their limits, allow little relaxation for the homeless to get away from the day's heat or cold. Because of the hours of operation, there is so much time spent waiting in lines for various things there is little time to actually rest. Once you are bedded down it's late and then you've got to get up early to start the process all over.
I found out about Bread of Life through another homeless man. He told me of a place where food, showers, and a place to sleep were available. My impressions of the Bread of Life were positive, and admittedly, one of the most influential times of my life. I learned that it's okay to give of oneself. Whether the giving be money, time, possessions, or life's insights, giving to others makes you feel good about yourself.
The Art Project, Houston was WONDERFUL! The program, while probably not for everyone, offered me an artistic release. From the directors to the volunteers, I was given the tools and challenged to be creative. The program allowed me to open up as an artist and use different mediums to convey thoughts, emotions, and/or physical hardships or pleasures.
The interactions with the staff and other homeless involved in The Art Project, Houston is an experience I'll never forget. There is genuine love in abundance. There is virtually no selfishness; it's about giving, helping, guiding, and encouraging others to be better than they themselves think possible.
I am most grateful for the life lesson that it's okay to give of oneself to those less fortunate. I'm also grateful for the art lesson that art is not defined and definite, that it's okay to paint outside the lines."
We celebrate with Solo that he is currently a professional tattoo artist at Big Daddy's Tattoo Studio in Bryan, Texas (814 E. Villa Maria). Solo continues to keep us updated and taps into opportunities of the work the Bread of Life offers through TAPH. Sole shares his art to be sold via TAPH as a way of providing support for those who are still in need of the serves the Bread of Life offers.
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