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Invisible

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Contributed by: Winona Rempel on 3/22/2007

Homelessness. Poverty. Mental Illness. These words evoke many emotions. Pity. Compassion. Fear. If you work or visit downtown Denver, you encounter people who embody these words. You walk past them as you stroll to lunch or step out for some coffee. You drive past them with their signs and shopping carts. They ask for change as you leave mass at the Cathedral. Most of the time they are ignored. Sometimes nicely, if that is possible, other times rudely. Why do we feel uncomfortable? Why do I feel uncomfortable? It is easier to pretend not to see them, to walk past without a second glance or thought. Do we blame them for their predicament? How can anyone let their lives come to this? They are the antithesis of what we view as success. We avoid them as if their situation is contagious.

Our culture values beauty, youth, wealth and power. Perhaps I am cynical and simplistic in saying this. But there is a kernel of truth to this. Whose efforts are amply rewarded? Those who serve the public for the greater good, those who teach or care for our children? Or is it those who entertain and indulge us? Emphasis is placed on our health and wellbeing. In a country where most working families cannot afford adequate health care, this is not always possible. These problems have always been and most likely will always be. But we are not powerless. There are things we can do. We can vote for politicians who are committed to change. We can give to charities. We can volunteer. But perhaps it can be as simple as treating everyone with the dignity they deserve.

There are times when we wish were invisible. When we feel unworthy of attention or consideration, but that is different than their invisibility. We don't see them because we are afraid of seeing ourselves when we are weak and powerless. We are afraid of seeing what could happen to us if no one cared.

'Not everyone can do great things, but we can all do small things with great love.' Mother Teresa

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CONTRIBUTOR INFORMATION

Winona Rempel

Westminster , CO

Winona Rempel has posted 6 stories and 2 comments since joining on 1/5/2007. Winona Rempel 's average story rating is 5.

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