[at-l] Glad this guy is not a hiker - gun story <WAY OT>

[Bror8588 at aol.com (Bror8588@aol.com)]

In a message dated 9/10/04 11:48:40 Eastern Daylight Time, 
jmmiele@optonline.net writes:


> As far as homelessness goes, if you say, as you did, that "most of those 
> who are homeless choose to be that way" it implies that you know most of the 
> people who are homeless and the reasons why they are in their situations.  I 
> 

It is true that I do not know most of those who are homeless, but I have 
worked with the homeless for many years.  There are homeless families who 
desperately want to have a home of their own and these people (in NYC and surrounding 
cities) do get assistance toward that end.  However, there are homeless 
individuals who have been offered assistance but who refuse that aid.  We all choose 
to be where we are.  If we do not study in school or drop out then we do not 
(I know that there are exceptions) succeed in life.  There are those who are 
poor because they have not prepared themselves to be wealthy.  It is true that 
there are some who are wealthy who have had their wealth given to them even 
though they have not done anything to deserve it, but if a survey was done among 
those who have worked for success then it would turn out that their efforts 
toward success were rewarded.  

Homelessness on the Appalachian Trail (I know some might say that the AT is 
home) is a choice and a rewarding one at that.  The completion of the trail (or 
a section of the trail) gives confidence in oneself.  The time spent "alone" 
in the wilderness is instructive and gives insight into one's strengths and 
weaknesses.  To hike on the AT gives awareness of possibilities.  The period of 
homelessness when chosen by an individual also gives insight.  Some become 
comfortable with it and others find ways to change their position.  It is a 
choice that each person makes.  

Skylander