Just out of prison

On a dark, drizzly night off East Burnside Street, I got off the bus to transfer. I was immediately greeted with a "Hey bro!" I met Gabriel, a 25 year old, at a bus stop just off the Burnside Bridge. He asked me for the time, and rather quickly the conversation transformed to him telling me he just got out of prison and was on parole. He showed me his ankle bracelet.

We talked for a long time. He mentioned how earlier that day he restrained himself when he wanted to pummel some guys who called him a retard. He was so proud of himself for not hitting them. We talked a lot about self control and the importance of thinking before speaking. I showed him my tattoo ("fewer words"), told him how I struggle with keeping my mouth shut when I'm with my wife, and we shared some laughs about how difficult relationships can be.

He said God has been so faithful to him. He has never given up on him. I told him the reason I was on the bus was that I was actually headed to church. We laughed some more.

The Same Guy!

Several months ago, I met a Vietnamese man on the bus. He kindly asked if he could sit in the empty seat next to me, and I said yes. After a few minutes, he introduced himself. He rubbed his greasy face, clearly had mental issues, and I couldn't understand a word of English since his accent was so thick. All I could understand was that he loves Subway and he asked me if I had money or if I could take him out for a meal. I said no, and I believe that I ended up getting a rash from him. Not sure.

Last week, I just happened to meet the same guy on bus! I remember him clearly: kindly asking to sit, the rubbing of his face, and most distinctively... the asking for a meal and his love for Subway.

I was actually in a hurry to get to church, since I was volunteering. However, realizing that I packed a few snacks in my back for myself, I offered him some carrot sticks, celery, and potato chips. He refused.

I guess he wasn't that hungry after all.