Zen in retail

Turns out that I really like standing and sorting clothes for three hours every
week at St. Anthony's. The back room is a BIG, calm, clean and well-organized
space and the two bosses drop by often to thank us. There are mounds and
mounds of clothes, but we only select the good, clean pieces for the Free
Clothing Program. My world is better structured now and of course I love
that "it's-not-much-but-I'm-giving-back" kind of feeling.

urban alchemy

That's the name of this group pictured here ~ they work the gritty, difficult
Tenderloin area of SF where St. Anthony's is located. I had a cheese
sandwich and latte sitting outside at Civic Center and watched them chase a
purse snatcher. (Or electronic snatcher, these days.) During the day I am
not afraid and yet that is the most common question when I talk about my new
volunteer job. Speaking of which, I worked in the Free Clothing Program
for three hours yesterday ~ good vibes, nice fellow workers and some very
expensive donations and lots of them. There are many wonderful people
in this world and I need to remember that on a daily basis. I return in a
week for another feel-good session.

two different worlds

full moon in quiet Bernal Heights

The Loin

Yesterday I had three hours of volunteer training at Saint Anthony's in
the heart of the Tenderloin. I know it is often difficult to feel compassion
for these homeless people, but as their numbers increase, society's safety
nets decrease. The trickle down theory does not work. At least I can
help clothe and feed them and look them in the eyes and know they exist.

saints galore

Dancing Jen works in the HR Department at St. Anthony's. Yesterday she
gave me a great tour of the huge and busy facilities. I am so impressed.
The key word is Dignity because they help the poor with food, medical,
computers, technical classes and there is a "store" with free clothes
that have been donated. On Saturday I will attend an Orientation class
and then I will start my volunteering ~ in the store because I love retail.