My View (2/3/2012)    

     I know that I spend too much reflecting on life and how things can change in such a short period of time.  To me, nothing demonstrates change more than simply looking out the window.      

     Just two years ago, I looked out my office window and was in the midst of downtown Omaha.  I could see people in suits walking, passengers exiting a bus, and drivers looking for a place to park.  I always welcomed the chance to look outside as it was exciting and busy.     

    Today, my view is very different.  The view can be extremely disheartening so I sometimes am afraid to even look outside.  For example, at around 3:30 each afternoon I see 10 and 11 year old children, who are desperately looking for food to eat for dinner.  I also frequently see grandparents walking around in the winter with their barefooted grandchildren as well as young families rummaging through trash cans for metal and/or aluminum cans, which they can sell to make end’s meet.      

     Last week as I handed out food to neighborhood children looking for dinner, I unfortunately ran out sandwiches, snacks, fruit, and bottled water.   I glanced outside again to see another young boy waiting by the window.  I hesitantly opened the door knowing the boy probably needed food and that I had nothing left to give.  After scavenging in our pantry, I was able to find a few items of food for the boy.  Even so, as the boy left, I felt terribly guilty.  As the boy left the Center, I noticed another child walk up to him.  I saw the two boys talking and noticed that the boy I had just helped hand over a couple of cans of food.  They then both sat down in our parking lot and shared their meal.  The view was not busy or exciting, however, I still could not help but smile.  Here were two kids with so very little but still shared everything they had.  What a beautiful view.