Don & Steve

Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. – Hebrews 13:2

God has blessed me with some very unique neighbors named Don and Steve. Both men are from completely different walks of life and both men have been beautiful reminders about the many ways God provides opportunities to love others.

Don moved into the small park across the street about three weeks ago. He is homeless and carries all his worldly possessions in his car. He is accompanied by two dogs who are his best friends. Everyday he smiles and waves as I set out on my run. I had the privilege of speaking with him the other day for a few moments and saw the joy in his face as we talked. He apologized for not getting out of his vehicle because he was taking care of his feet which were missing several toes. I’m not sure if that was due to health reasons or possible exposure to the elements, but Don doesn’t let that stifle his joy.

Everyday I hear him from my upper window talking with his dogs and greeting people as they walk by. I don’t know why he’s in the circumstances that he is, but his positive attitude helps me to find contentment and joy in my own life.

Steve is part of the motorcyle club that rents the shop located behind our home. I met him while checking on the property and was blessed to hear his story. He is currently fighting two forms of cancer and has been receiving weekly chemotherapy treatments. He has good and bad days and will be starting multiple rounds of radiation in the new few weeks. He lost his wife of 50 years to cancer last year.

He is often alone at the club during the day and I told him I was concerned about him and reminded him that I’m just around the corner if he needs anything. He smiled, thanked me and gave me a hug.

Both of these men are not here by accident. God loves them just as much as He loves each one of us and I pray that His blessings will be upon them.