​     ​Painting a Picture                                                                Part one.            7/11/2018


Laying on the ground in the middle of the woods, just relaxing, and looking up at the splendor of all that is good, is such a far cry, from  living on the filthy cold streets of the city, at the mercy of human beings, who believe you to be the dirt they walk upon.  Looking back, had it not been for Sam, I, and many more, would have found ourselves at deaths door, homeless and hopeless, with no where to turn, living in the endless cycle of poverty and despair.
    For me, it began many years ago. I was on top of the world. Newly married to the most wonderful girl in the world, a nice home in the country, and a wonderful job. I was blessed with all the promise life had to offer. Even a baby on the way. We were so in love. We had parties in winter, spring, summer and fall. When we weren't entertaining, or enjoying our lives together,  I would be hard at work,  keeping up our happy lifestyle. It costed a lot. A lot more than I could have ever imagined.   
    I got the call about one in the afternoon, while at a business lunch with some very important clients. My darling wife was in labor, and on her way to the hospital.  We needed this account. I couldn't just walk out. This was our bread and butter. If I lose this account, I could lose everything. I stayed for another hour and then politely excused myself. My missus is in labor I said, I have to get to the Hospital. Get moving man, said one of the clients. Family comes first. I was stunned to here him say that. He was always all business. Maybe it was the many drinks he had talking, but I took my que, and hit the road toward the hospital. It was only an hour I thought, I bet she is still in labor. And after all, I could say I hit traffic, that's why I'm late.  Unfortunately, I did hit traffic. I didn't get to the hospital until around four thirty. I ran through the doors and up to the delivery room. I asked for my wife.  Please wait here while I get the doctor, said the nurse.  The obstetrician came out, and over to where I was standing. His eyes were aimed low, and his face was sullen. What is it, I asked a bit impatient. I could see something was wrong.  He slowly lifted his eyes until they met mine. He put his hand on my shoulder and said, there were some devastating complications during the delivery, your wife and daughter did not survive. My heart, no, my entire being imploded. I stood frozen, numb, I couldn't comprehend the words he was saying. I'm sorry for your loss he said. My mind was reeling, I wasn't there for her. I fainted and collapsed to the floor.
   After the funeral, I tried to go back to work. Life now, was all wrong. I couldn't help but blame myself. I should have left immediately when I got the call. With all the traffic, I would still have never made it, but I should have left right then. I should have taken that whole week off from work. I should have been there no matter what.  I couldn't eat or sleep. Days, then weeks past, and I couldn't shake the horribleness that filled my mind and soul. I began drinking to try and sleep. It didn't help. I took all kinds of pills trying to escape the pain that overwhelmed me, but guilt was consuming my every moment.   Finally one morning I went to work. Everyone, I thought was staring at me. They knew I didn't rush to the hospital the minute I got the call, I put money first. I sat in the chair in my office with the shades closed. I looked at my desk, but all I saw was confusement. I couldn't focus. I stayed until four pm and then left. That was the last day I would work. I sat around the house in a deep dark depression, and caught up in a self pity party. The weeks turned into months and I was not getting any better. Bills piled up, and the house in utter disarray. One morning, they turned the electricity off for failure to pay my bill, and I just left the house dark and gloomy. It was befitting to my soul. I had lost about 35 pounds by now and looked like a beanpole. I was a wreck.  One night, I downed a whole  bottle of scotch, and a handful of pills. I tried to end it all. Instead,  I woke up under a pile of garbage in an alley, in the city, right where I belonged. I have no recollection of how I got here.
    Two young homeless kids were laughing at me. Both of them were all dirty and scroungy. They held in there hands, what ever belongings I had. My wallet and ID,  and my last thirty five dollars. Give me my stuff I said. No, said one of them, this is for mama. Then they ran off. The sun peaked between the buildings, and crossed over the alley way. It felt good on me while it lasted. I got up and began walking. And walking, and walking. I was aimlessly drifting through the city streets. When nightfall came, I found another alley and crawled behind and under some more garbage.  Sleep continued to evade me. My eyes closed but all I saw was my wife and daughter, on the delivery bed, cold and blue. I did lose consciousness  for an hour or two each night, but there was no rest or comfort to be found. I was in hell. 
          Time passed, and I began to beg passer buyers for loose change. Anything to get something to eat and drink. Some folks spit on me. Others said, get a job you bum. And still others, just put their noses in the air, and walked on by as if they could not see or hear me. Every so often, a tourist from out of town, would drop a couple of coins into my tattered coffee cup.  I began to meet others who shared my misfortune of being destitute, and lived out on the streets. Some, were fakers. They panhandled all day and then went back to their apartments at night.  I, like most of the others, slept where ever I could find a bit of cover. The garbage piles became my home. 
  I learned  about street life and survival one day at a time. After about  three years living on the street, I knew most of the other homeless people. I became friendly with some, and others were to be feared.  Sleep came easier these days, as time was healing my injured soul. It was a tough life. Battling rats for table scraps behind diners, or in garbage bags on the sidewalks, and fending off other bag people, who wanted your coat or shoes. I wondered how the youngest members of the street could survive under these conditions. Then I thought about the kids who robbed me, my first morning here in hell. When I had demanded my belongings back, they said no, they were for mama.  I wondered now, were they homeless, or did they come out at night like the fakers from a home?  My curiosity got the better of me, and I wandered through the streets to the alley, I had first awakened in .  I lingered there for over two weeks, waiting and watching, until I saw one of the kids. He was stealing fruit from a street vendor. I snuck up from behind and grabbed him. He struggled and kicked, screaming let me go. I held him tight. Calm down I said, I want to talk to you. The vendor looked at me. Get away from here you dirt bag, he said. This fruit cost money. I reached into my pocket, and pulled out three quarters I had from begging. I gave them to the vendor and said, I hope that covers the cost. He took the money and waved his hand as for us to leave, with a look of disgust on his face. I turned, kid in hand and left. 
  What are you gonna do with me asked the boy? I have questions I said. Answer them honestly, and I will let you go.  What is your name I asked?  Ben, replied the boy. Hi Ben, it is nice to meet you, I am Joseph.   I remember you said Ben. Me and my friend Greg took your stuff  a couple years ago. Yes I said, that is what I want to ask you about. We gave it to mama he said. Yes, I know I said, is mama your mother? No said Ben, she is mama to a whole bunch of us. She takes care of us. Does she have a house I asked? Well, said Ben, not a house, but an old abandoned store where we sleep at night. It is warm and safer than the street. We bring her whatever we can, and she feeds us all by dividing it up fairly.  What about the money you panhandle or steal I asked? She uses it all for us. Milk and food. Sometimes we get socks when winter comes. She sounds like a good mama I said. I thought for a second about my wife. She would have been a good mama too. I would like to meet her, I said to Ben. I don't think that is possible he said. She has rules. She does not like, or want strangers around, unless they are kids. I see, I said.  Okay then Ben,  thank you for sharing this information with me. You may go now as I promised you. Ben looked at me puzzled. Thanks Joe, he said, then turned, and scurried away down the street.
         The store front was an old paint store. It appeared to have been abandoned during the great depression. It was one of the oldest buildings I have seen so far here in the city, but I could tell it was structurally sound. It was ragged and worn, but there was not a loose brick to be seen. Even the old plaster inside was in tact, except for some holes caused by pilferers. You can still see the numbers carved in the brick. 125. The name was painted on. But it was so old and worn, I could only make out a few of the letters. Abra--- -rom--n Pa--nt-ng Co. And, from the rooftop, it had a clearview of the river.  
    I had watched the place for a few days now. Ben had no idea that I had followed him home, after letting him go the day we talked. I figured it was the best way to find the answers I was looking for. It was weird. I was being drawn to this kid, and to mama, and to this place. There was something in my soul brewing, but for the life of me I didn't know what it was, or why. I'm just a dirty, worthless, homeless bum, I thought. 
    The kids came and went from sun up, until sundown. After dark it was always quiet. No one came or went at night. Except for mama. She was a small younger woman probably in her late twenties.  She would leave after eleven pm, and return by two am every single night. She would carry out, two old empty carpet bags, and  when she returned they were filled. With what I didn't know. I was more than curious to know what she was up to, so one night I decided I would follow her.  Eleven on the nose, her small figure appeared in the doorway with the bags. She was wearing a shawl, covering her head and arms. I could not see her face. Her dress was dark blue and long. It reminded me of my grandmothers. She walked across the street, and ducked into a small alleyway between the buildings. I was as quiet as ever, as I followed her. I waited for her to exit the alley, and then I, bolted through and stopped at the end. My eyes scanned the area, and watched to see where she headed next. When she was a good distance up the road, I came out of the alley, and again walked slow and careful in her direction. It was not long, before she entered a small all night market. Now I had the chance to get really close to her. I was just another customer in the store. It was the best cover ever. I watched as she picked through the cheaper overly ripe fruit. She put the best looking ones into the basket. Then she got milk. Next she was by the meat section. She was talking to her self, as if deciding which meat she would buy. She put something in the basket but I could not see what it was. Then she walked the aisles and grabbed a couple of cans of beans, and some fresh wilted vegetables. As she headed to the checkout, she stopped and turned. She looked directly at me. Our eyes met. Was I that obvious, I asked myself? Did she know I was watching and following her? Her gaze turned back to a rack by the cash register. I walked back down the  aisle I was in,  still watching her in the mirror at the end of the aisle. She quickly, almost guiltily, grabbed a small box of cookies, and shoved them into the basket.  My heart began to beat a bit faster. I thought of all the kids she was taking care of. My initial thought of mama when Ben had told me about her, was that she was probably taking advantage of them somehow. How wrong I was. I was just like the people on the street. I thought the worst of her. Tears filled my eye's, as I realized how deep, even my preconceptions and stereotypes were.  She was now haggling over the price of the fruit and vegetables. They are wilted she said, and should be discounted. The vendor then gave her a lower price, and I saw a quick smile cross her face. I continued watching as she paid the cashier for her purchase.  It was mostly all in coins. She filled the two bags, and off she went, and headed back in the direction, of the way we had come.
      About two blocks from the market, on a small dark side street, two men, (they definitely looked homeless), but I did not know them, approached mama. One man said something to her, but I could not hear what it was he was saying. Mama shouted NO, and turned to walk away. The other man blocked her path. He knocked one of the bags from her hand, and onto the ground. They were going to rob her I thought. Suddenly, the other man grabbed her from behind, and the first man began to grab at her dress. For a second I was frozen with fear for her, and in the next, I was on top of the men. I punched and kicked them with everything I had. Mama kicked one of them hard in the groin. He fell to the ground, as I punched the other in the face, breaking his nose. His blood began to flow. He ran, and the other guy got up and ran after him. Are you all right I asked her. I am, she replied. Thank you for your assistance she added. I bent down and picked up her groceries and refilled the bag. I'm sorry this has happened to you I said. She looked up at me. Why are you following me she asked? I, I'm, I'm not;,,  "I know you are" she said abruptly. "And" she continued, I have seen you watching my home for the past week.  I looked into her eyes. Yes I said you are right. I don't know how to explain. Try the truth she said, it is usually the best. I mean you no harm I said to her. It is a long story, and I'm not even sure of the answer.  Mama looked at me. Carry one of the bags and walk with me. Tell me your story. 
     I shared everything from losing my wife and daughter, to my life here, homeless on the street. I told her how I felt drawn to the boy Ben, and somehow, through him, to her. I don't know why I said, but I have this feeling inside, that I am supposed to be here with you and the children.  As we neared the old rundown store where she lived with the kids, she said, " I have been waiting a long time for you to come".   My eyes opened wide in disbelief. I don't understand I said.  I, said mama, lost my husband and son in a car accident when I was a young bride. I wound up here caring for these poor unfortunates. One night, while I was sleeping, I had a dream of a man who would come, and together we would build something great.  I believe this man is you. Tears filled my eyes again. My heart leapt in my chest, and my soul was floating higher than it had been in years. But build what I asked? I do not know said mama, that is where you came into the dream.
End part one                                     Photo by Jennifer Wright

                      Painting a Picture.                                                              part two.

      Mama allowed me to enter her home. It was very run down, but it was clean and tidy. All the kids were sleeping. I was amazed at how well this woman was caring for these young ones, with almost no income at all. She had books that she would use to teach them to read and write. Even math was on their  daily curriculum. She had a small camping type stove, which was fueled by a small propane tank, like the kind plumbers use for their torch. Mama was putting the groceries away. What will you do with the milk I asked? Mama showed me a very small refrigerator. A man brought this here for us a long time ago. It is out of an old camper van. It, like our little stove, is powered by the propane tanks. I can get four tanks for two dollars at the store, and they last a long time. They go faster in the winter she said, as I sometimes use the stove for a little extra warmth for the kids. You can sleep there she told me, pointing to a corner on the far side of the room. Here is a blanket. The blanket was old and tattered, but it was comfortable none the less. It was far better than being under the garbage piles.    I was asleep in no time at all.
      I woke to the smell of cooking food. It was the first time I smelled that in almost four years. The kids were hovering over the books, and doing the lessons, which mama sets out each morning. Two of the boys however, were hovering over me. What are you doing here asked Ben? Greg was looking at me intently. He looks familiar Greg said. Yea said Ben, this is the guy we found under the garbage pile in the alley a few years back. Remember I told you about him grabbing me about week ago. Yes said Greg, I remember. So said Greg, what are you doing here? Get to your lessons boys, interrupted mama. The boys  immediately did as they were told. I was stunned how all the children obeyed her so quickly, and without question.  This is Joseph, said mama. He will be staying with us for a while. Listen to him as you would me. He is going to help around here also. Mama looked down at me laying on the floor. You will need to get up earlier than this she said. Yes mam, I quickly answered. I got up and folded my blanket, and set it on the shelf. Breakfast is ready she said, come and get it. One by one the children filled their small bowls and ate. Afterward, each wiped their bowl clean and set it in their small cubby space. There were two walls filled with cubby's. They were used to store the paint cans when the store was active years ago.  Okay kids said mama, out ya go. No stealing and no hurting anyone. Ask nicely and bring home what you can.  Off they went. I counted eighteen kids. Fifteen boys and three girls. You too Joe, there are no free rides here. You will have to earn your keep if you are to stay. I said okay mama, and followed the children out the door.
     It was a bright sunny fall morning. The streets were filling with people and the holidays coming fast. This was a better time for us living in the street. People felt guilty this time of year. They would bring food and clothes, and pass them out for free. Sometimes socks, sometimes new underwear. Used coats were very welcomed items. People came from outside the city with cars and vans, bringing hot soups, sandwiches, and even turkey dinners around thanksgiving. I wondered about the conversation I had with mama. What could I possibly build with her. Why was I even here?  I thought about how I would panhandle today. Would I just sit and beg, or is there another way? I decided to try a new approach to separate people from their coins. I got a piece of card board from the trash, and made a small sign. "I will work if you have a job me, but please help me to eat".  I set it up on the sidewalk next to my old cup. All day I sat and watched the people walk by. I was invisible. One frail old guy, walked past at least twenty times. I thought for sure he was gonna dump some change on me, but nothing. It was near dark and I was getting ready to head back to mama's. I had almost three dollars in the cup. I was ashamed to go back with such a little amount. It was not even enough to feed me, no less the kids and mama. I started to walk back toward my old garbage piles, when the frail old man approached me. He reached into his pocket. I knew it. He was gonna give me some cash. He looked at me and asked, can you paint? I stuttered my answer. Y  ye ye yes, I can. He took his hand out of his pocket and handed me five dollars. This is an advance he said. I have some old kitchen cabinets that I need painted. Is there a place that I can bring them, where you can do the work, he asked?
    Was he crazy, I was homeless. Anyone could see that. I thought about mama's place. Then like a ton of bricks it hit me. Mama's place. Yes sir I said. There is an abandoned paint store just a few blocks from here. I could do the work there. I know the place said the old man, I will deliver the cabinets in the morning. I, I don't have any paint or tools I said. I'll bring what you need he said, don't you worry.  With that the old guy turned and walked away. I looked at the five dollar bill he gave me, and on it was written, Sam. I looked up in the direction of the man, but he was no where in sight. I was now worried that mama would be angry with me. I had no right to agree to anything with regards to her home. With eight bucks in hand, and the prospect of some work, I headed back to mama's. 
       It was well after dark when I entered into the house. The kids were asleep, and mama was in her chair, reading. I made you a small plate of dinner. It is on the table. There isn't much, but it should fill your stomach for tonight. I ate it up in seconds as I was very hungry. Funny thing, it filled me completely. It even gave me a warm feeling all over. Thank you I said. That was the best meal I have had, in a very long time. Your welcome said mama. How did you do today she asked? Like all the children had done earlier, I handed her what I had. She looked up at me and smiled. Eight dollars, not bad. Maybe I can pick up a little extra food tonight when I go shopping. I knew now, why she went out every night. First there was only the money of the day, second there was really no room for storage. The fridge was so so tiny. But all in all, it was a good system. I did worry about her going out alone though. I suggested that we go together. She agreed. The kids were safer here than out in the street, and besides, her system has worked well for a long time. She looked at the fiver. How is it you have a whole five dollar bill? Did you run into Rockefeller or something she asked laughing?  It was the first time I saw her laugh. She looked incredible. It seemed she was happy. No I said, just some old guy who said he has a little painting I can do for him. The five was an advance. A job she exclaimed! My, I am impressed. Well, I said, we will know for sure in the morning. He is supposed to bring the project here. I hope you're not angry. Angry? she said with a big smile, this was a paint store after all, it is very fitting. Maybe the boys will want to help. That would be awesome, I said relieved that she was not mad at me. We talked for an hour and I fell asleep in my corner. At eleven o'clock, I woke up and went shopping with her. When we returned, I grabbed my blanket and went right back to sleep. 
     I was up before everyone. I was excited about painting the cabinets for the old man.  Mama woke up second. Well that's more like the man I need around here, she said smiling. How did you wake up before me she asked? I'm really excited I said. So am I said mama. She turned the small knob on the camp stove and lit the burner. I'll have breakfast ready soon she said. The children began to wake. Ben and Greg were the first up. I was going to tell them about the painting job, then I thought, what if the old man doesn't show up. Just then I heard a truck outside. That'll be for you Joe, said mama beaming. Ben and Greg jumped into their clothes and followed me outside. Good morning sir I said. My name is Sam, said the old man. Hello, I said, My name is Joseph. It is very nice to meet you Joseph. I have the cabinets here, along with some paint and various tools you may need for the job. Ben and Greg, and some of the other children, helped me unload the truck. We carried the cabinets and supplies into the building, and to a big room which was probably a showroom at one time. After the truck was unloaded, Sam and I shook hands. I'll see you in a few days he said. Do a good job. I will I replied boldly. Sam hopped into the truck left. I found it kind of odd, that someone trusted me, a homeless person, with a job, when they had no knowledge of me at all. Breakfast is ready said mama. I dismissed the thought and went to eat with my new found family.
          The children ate and finished their lessons. Ben and Greg, followed me into our new workshop. All the others went out to forage in the streets. I remember hoping they would all have a good day, and bring home as much as they could.  Greg reached into a bag and pulled out some tools. What's this he asked? That is a scraper I said. We need to scrape off the old paint. Here are two more said Ben. We went through the tools and I explained to the best of my knowledge what each one was, and what they were used for. I found two old two by fours, and set three cabinets on them. Ben and Greg watched as I began to scrape the paint. Can we do some too they asked? Certainly I said, each of you take a cabinet and get to work. We spent hours scraping the paint from the cabinets. There were fifteen in all.  Mama brought us some water, and a small snack for lunch. Usually, there is no one  home at lunchtime except mama. I think she gave us her food. My hands had blisters and were sore. I said nothing, because the boys didn't complain, not even once. It was a long day. As the other children straggled in, they came to see what we were doing. I guess it didn't look very impressive, as they each in turn, went back into the living area, and left us be. When I heard mama say dinner was ready, we set the tools aside, and went to eat. When we finished Ben and Greg wanted to get back to work. Tomorrow I said. We need to rest. 
I fell asleep early, and woke as was usual now, to shop with mama, and then back to sleep.  In the morning when I woke up, Ben and Greg were already in the work room. What's next Joe they asked? Well boys, we need to get the cabinets as smooth as possible. When we paint them, we don't want any nicks or dings.  We need to sand them. Sam was smart. He had sandpaper and small sanding blocks to do the job right. I showed the boys how to sand. Always sand with the grain. What is grain asked Ben? Greg's ear perked up. I think he too wanted to know the answer. Look at the wood I said. Do you see the lines in it? They both answered yes. Okay I said, that is the grain.  It is the age rings in the tree. When you sand wood, it is best to always sand with the grain. You see the long lines that go up and down the wood right, well that is the direction of the grain. Sanding it against the grain would take much more work to get smooth, and the wood will look ratty. This is most important when using stains. Stain sinks in, allowing you to see the finished wood. Paint covers the grain, and you don't see it, but it is much easier to sand smooth with the grain. It saves energy and time. The boys and I sanded the cabinets down to bare wood. We use lighter sand paper at the end and they were smooth as a baby's bottom. I'm tired said Ben. Me too said Greg. Yea me three I said, we have done a lot of work in two days. When the other kids began to filter in, they were not so quick to leave. The bare wood cabinets looked great. They were all feeling the soft smooth wood. This feels so good. Everyone was beginning to get interested. We ended the day as usual. Dinner, and conversation of the days events. Stories from the streets, and now from our new workshop. 
   The third day two more children stayed behind to help with the cabinets. I looked at mama. She looked back at me. I was worried about food, and losing two more incomes was going to hurt. She smiled at me, and nodded her head toward the shop. Okay kids, let's do this. First thing I said is to prime them. Primer is used to help the paint adhere to the surface. Next, I showed them how to mix the paint. Sam had brought four cans all white eggshell finish. The brushes were made of synthetic fiber. They were great for water or latex based paints. We had latex, so all was good. The kids and I painted the cabinets. Also with the grain where ever possible. We gave them two coats. With the extra hands, things moved along much faster now. When dinner came we were finished. As the kids entered the shop, you could hear the oohs and aahhhs. Mama came in to get us all for dinner. Very nice job she said, they look brand new. Dinner was kind of light. Mama and myself forwent the meal, and let the children eat it all, so they were nourished. We would survive. Mama and I went outside while the kids ate. I told her, now that we were finished with the cabinets, I would hit the streets in the morning, and take the others back out with me. Our project was finished.  I laid on the floor under my blanket wondering when Sam would return for the cabinets, and mostly wondering, how much he would pay us for our work. I dozed off and slept. I dreamt of mama's house. The front was bright pink with new paint. It looked wonderful. I saw Ben and Greg on ladders working hard trying to finish it before mama got home. It was dark out. Mama was  shopping. I woke up and shook my head. I looked around and mama was gone. She had gone shopping without me. I must have been really tired. I suddenly thought of my wife and daughter. It was the first time in quite a while. That horrid feeling had my stomach. I jumped up and out the door I went. I ran across the street and through the alley. Panic was setting in. I rounded the corner of the building, and there was mama.
            End part two.
                                                             Part three the end     ;)
            Startled to see me, carrying only one bag, mama was done shopping and on her way home. What's wrong she asked? You are all pale as if you have seen a ghost. I put my arms around her for the first time. I was so scared I said. I woke up and you were gone. You looked so peaceful sleeping she said, I just wanted you to get a full nights sleep. Thank you I said, calming myself down, but please don't do that again. I prefer to be with you when you are out so late at night. Remember,,, I remember she butted in cutting off my words. But I refuse to live in fear of the past. I am protected she said. If you remember correctly she said to me, you were there to save me. What will be, will be she said. If something were to happen to you I would be lost. Ah she said, it is so nice you care about me, but you would still have our children to worry about. She smiled. I took the lone bag from her hand, and together we walked home. When we were inside and the food put up, I put my arms around her and just held her tight for a second. She held me back, and it felt better than anything I can remember ever.  I said goodnight and went to my sleeping spot. I laid there awake all night. Once again sleep was eluding me.
   Light from outside was finally coming in  through the window. It was time to get up. Even though I had not fallen back to sleep, I was not tired. I was ready to hit the streets. Mama got up and fed the kids. There was enough for her and me too, although tonight we would go hungry. There was extra paint. I wondered if I could sell it for some quick cash. That would get us dinner. After a minute or so, I dismissed the thought. It was not mine to sell. It belonged to Sam. I walked a few blocks. All I could think of, was how wonderful it felt to be working in the shop with the boys. There was something special about working together. Maybe it was the camaraderie,or maybe just being in the company of good people. The feeling was indescribable. Just then I heard a horn beeping. I looked up and sure enough, it was Sam. Hop in he said. I jumped up and into the passenger seat. I hadn't been in a vehicle in over five years. It was nice. So, asked Sam, how are my cabinets coming along? We are finished I told him. We? Inquired Sam. Yes we, I said.  Ben and Greg helped and then some of the other kids joined in. Well what do you know said Sam. And how do they look? Why not come see for your self I said. I wanted the money. We needed it desperately. We were at the house in minutes. This way Sam, I said. We kind of made a work room inside.  As we entered the room you could have heard a pin fall into a pile of feathers. Sam was stunned.  He had been a painter his whole life, and said he had never seen such a fine job. It was the boys mostly I said. I just led them a little. By the looks of these, I'm guessing you have quite a good crew he said. Thanks Sam, I'll tell them you said that, that will make them feel great. Where are they now he asked? A bit ashamed, I told him they were out panhandling. It was our only source of income.  I am very impressed said Sam. Not only with the work you have done, but with your honesty.  He reached into his pocket and gave me fifty dollars. I'll be by first thing in the morning he said, make sure you have help to load the cabinets on the truck. I will I said and thank you.  What do I do with the extra paint I asked him? There is a gallon and a half left. Let the kids clean up the place a little he said, and he headed back into the truck and left. Fifty bucks was not a lot for most, but for us it meant food, and we would eat.   I stood in the workroom and looked around. I wished we could do it again.  It was great for the kids to learn a trade, and I was beginning to feel good about myself again. 
     I gave mama the money. She smiled and told me she was going to go out for a while. I wondered where. I never saw her leave in the daytime before. After she left, I grabbed a brush and an open can of paint. I wasn't painting but a minute or two, when the door burst opened. It was Ben and Greg. What's the matter fellas I asked? It just doesn't feel right said Greg. Yea said Ben, we want to work. We need to work. Grab a brush, I said smiling, mama is out, and it would be a big surprise for her to come home, and find this room all bright with new paint. Before I could finish speaking, both boys had brushes in their hands, and were  painting the the walls along side me. What a team we were. We finished in no time, and it looked great. Ben and Greg did all the cutting in. Soon after, Mama came home. She had two full bags of food. Greg and Ben took the bags, and mama 's eyes bounced from one wall to the next. It's beautiful she said. I can't believe it. You were gone a long time I said. I was a bit concerned. I went shopping, and,  she said proudly, I went to the bank. I opened a savings account. I have a feeling we are going to need it. I was puzzled. Why would we need a bank account. We were flat broke. Mama began to make dinner, and the boys and I cleaned the brushes and put them back in the work room. Gee, said Ben, it would be great to have a real job. Yes said Greg, I would love that too. You boys are young I told them, you'll get your chance. The rest of the kids were back now, and Mama had prepared a feast fit for a king. This is for all your hard work she said. Every day, you all go out into the streets to help us to survive, and these past few days with this painting project, well, you all deserve far more than this. Thank you mama said the children. Yes I said, thank you. Sleep came easy. Even mama got to sleep through the night.
    I woke to the sound of the beeping, of a truck backing up. I jumped to my feet and quickly woke the boys. Sam is here. We have to load the truck. Remember to be super careful with his newly restored cabinets. We don't want to mess up all that hard work. I smiled. The kids were happy. Mama was happy. Even I was happy. Something magical was happening. Good morning to be alive, said Sam. Yes it is I replied. Mama, the kids and I, and Sam  were all outside by the truck. Sam had a different truck this time. It was a much larger box truck. Joseph, said Sam, I have a very important question to ask you. Yes Sam I said, what can I do for you. He went on, I was wondering if you would like to do another project for me? I looked at mama. Her face lit up like a Christmas tree and she had the biggest smile I ever saw. I glanced around at all the children, and they too had a look of excitement written all over them. When my eyes caught sight of Greg and Ben, I choked up and got tears in my eyes. Both had their hands folded like they were praying, and their heads were nodding up and down, as if trying to will me to say yes. I thought of how little money we actually made. Then I thought of how wonderful working together had been for the kids. And me. Yes Sam I said, we would be honored to do any projects you could throw our way. I must be honest though, we do not pay rent, or belong in this place. We are trespassers. We could be thrown out at any time. I understand said Sam, I'll take my chances. Everyone cheered. The excitement was overwhelming. It was like somehow, we had won the lottery or something. Just for the ability to work. 
          Okay kids, I said, lets get the cabinets loaded. Hold on a minute said Sam, first we have to unload the truck. Unload I said confused. Yes he said, I thought you would say yes, so I brought over more supplies and a few more items to be restored. Also said Sam, I brought some old tools that were my fathers. He had quite a few stored in his basement and left them to me when he passed many years ago. It will be nice to see them put to good use again.  I noticed your work room was rather large and empty he said, so let's  fill it up. Sam opened the truck. My jaw dropped. Greg and Ben each grabbed one my hands and said, well, it looks like we have a little work ahead of us.  Let's get moving Joe. We began unloading the truck.  
         There was paint, brushes, primer, scrapers, drop cloths, sanding equipment, even ladders and poles for painting high places. I turned to Sam, why the ladders and poles I inquired? Sam replied, when you have leftover paint, you and the children can paint the apartment and the work shop too. It will be good for them to learn everything they can. I smiled. Sam was a wise old man. It took almost two hours to unload the truck. He must have had fifteen full set's of kitchen cabinets in it. After it was completely unloaded, we carefully brought out the refinished cabinets, and into the truck they went. Sam had some nice soft moving blankets and covered and tied them down.  He pulled the strap on the big truck door, and down it came. Greg swung the arm latch into place, locking it up. We headed back inside. Everything is numbered said Sam. Start with set number one, then two, and so on. I will come every Thursday, and pick up the finished work. Alright then I said smiling at him. I followed Sam back outside to the truck. Wonderful job, he said again. I expect the same with all these as well. Certainly I said, they will be like new. Good said Sam, oh and by the way, here is the final payment for this first project. He handed me an envelope. Thank you I said surprised. I had thought the fifty five he already gave me was it. I always pay cod said Sam. Cash on Delivery. And Joseph he added, you and those kids truly delivered a very fine product. See you next Thursday he said and drove off. I went inside to mama. The kids were still in the workroom, looking over all the stuff Sam had brought. They were so enthrall by it all, and I was in total amazement. I handed mama the envelope. She opened it and smiled. I thought we might need that bank account she said. Why, how much is there I asked?  She pulled out five crisp hundred dollar bills. I was stunned. Sam had paid us well. Very well. Together, mama and I decided not to tell the kids about the money, mama just put it in the bank. 
   Once again we started working. No one went out into the streets today. We all worked. It was a miracle. Ben and Greg were showing the others what to do and how to do it. They all learned fast. The days past more quickly now than they had in years. Mama set the schedule. Each day three of the children stayed in the living area with her. They had lessons from after breakfast, until just before dinner, when we  closed the door to the shop.  Of coarse, they and us, stopped for lunch everyday also.Mama made sure we did.  Some times the projects were just scraping, sanding, and staining. No paint at all. The children were fanatical with the detail they put in to their finished work. Sam continued to come each Thursday. He took the finished items, and brought new stuff to be redone. Also, each and every week, he paid us a fair wage. 
   Mama went to the bank each week. She slowly bought some new clothes and shoes for everyone, including us. She was as frugal as ever, never wasting a dime of our hard earned money. Other homeless children began to drift into our lives. We took them all in. As long as they followed the rules,( lessons, work, kindness and honesty), they could stay. Sam, which I later learned, had built one of the largest painting and finishing companies on the east coast. When the children reached age 18, Sam offered them employment in his company, and even helped many to join the trade workers union. They became self sufficient and full contributing members of society. Ben was the first to leave our shop and join with Sam.  He comes back on occasion, and works a day in the workroom, teaching and sharing his life experience with the new kids.  He talked a lot about how him and Greg, and the other kids, repainted the entire building and shop, in their spare time. I remember those days. It wasn't even like work. We all had fun together, talking and laughing as we scraped, sanded, and painted. Sam had come once with a power washer, and the kids sprayed and cleaned the outside of the building. Then they painted the trim. They did a fabulous job. the building looked great. I was always afraid we would be tossed out, but no one ever bothered us. Mama even had the electric put on, when the kids were painting the upper floors and rooms. They kids all have rooms now. As always they are required to keep them maintained and clean on their own. Mama's kitchen is fully equipped and functional. The money always goes to keeping up the place, and supporting our kids. They learn the trade, and most of them, when they leave here, go to work for Sam, and continue to build their lives, away from the streets. 
 I remember one night  back before Sam passed,  He told mama never to worry about being thrown out of the building. He went on to tell her, it was his, left to him by his father. Sam had arranged, that as long as it remained a teaching safe haven for homeless kids, the place was their's.  I remember the reporters coming and writing articles about mama's operation with the homeless. She was even interviewed on television once. Sometime after that, I received a letter from a lawyer, from where I lived before. It seemed my in laws, had sued the hospital for negligence in the death of my wife and daughter. They received a two million dollar settlement. They had apparently passed on a few years ago and left it to me. I guess the lawyer  saw my name in an article or something. The whole two million was still left.  I too was now getting older and my health beginning to deteriorate. It was time for me to rest. I bought a small two bedroom home, back in the country, close to where I had lived before, and gave the rest of the money to mama. Greg is at the helm now and is doing a fantastic job. He has a super business sense,a wonderful way with the kids, a really big heart, and has led  many many more  out of life on the streets. The kids learn and grow, and go from destitute poverty stricken street urchins, to full healthy functioning members of society. Many of the these youth have even started their own businesses.  And many still go to work for Sam's company.
  Yes, laying here on the ground in the middle of the woods, just relaxing and looking up at the splendor of all that is good, is such a far cry, from  living on the filthy cold streets of the city, but I would not trade my experience for all the money in the world. Thank you Sam, for renewing my faith in humanity. 
                Mama started a foundation with the money I gave her, solely for the homeless children's teaching center, and then she too, took leave and retired. She moved to the country with a man in a two bedroom home. They only used one. The End. 
 

            This story is dedicated to The Fromkin Brothers Company, and Family.  Thank you for providing so many jobs and opportunities, for so many people.  You have truly made a positive difference in the lives of many, and in the world. Keep up the great work.   This story, although fictional, shares the vision and mission statement of a great company. Help yourself, by helping others.   Chinese Proverb:  “You give a poor man a fish and you feed him for a day. You teach him to fish and you give him an occupation that will feed him for a lifetime.”  Thanks again. <3