I may have mentioned previously, the homeless guy that I have known for about two years, that has been hassled by a family on welfare. Brian, who sleeps in his car for as long as I have known him, has just lost his second car to the families actions (I wanted to write evils).
Brian just had his car burnt out — gutted by fire — and written off. This was his second car, the first was trashed by the family as to make it unroadworthy. Yet, the Police do nothing and DHS, who has intervened with the family just this last week, seems to wash their hands to the malicious and evil actions of the family to this man.
We have provided space, a kind ear and food to this man for well over three years, and the family started making an appearance about a year ago, and their on-and-off again appearances divide the other guests — most want to ban them, while others wanted lynch the kids. Both Brian and the family have been guests since and continue to be at both meals I serve at. Several times I have had to intervene and warn the kids and the mother that while with us they will not disrespect Brian.
But no matter how much we have prayed for both the family and Brian and the unusual situation — where Brian seems to like the attention and hang around despite the amazing amount of abuse — they continue this cycle of abuse and violence, and I hear this morning after finding out about the car being torched that Brian is not pressing charges.
While not having any authority in this matter — it kills me and many others who are travelling with these guys — that there is very little we can do besides prayer and compassion, even to the family. So, do we ban them from the meals? That is something I am wrestling with.
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Hi Neal,
Firstly, I am moved by your work in the eastern suburb of Australia. Being here for only 3 months, I can't say much about what actually is happening here. I can offer some humble opinions from limited perspectives, but I know I'm not in any position to say more. Perhaps, I should go there and look at the real things myself, instead of commenting on things I hardly know.
Thanks Hilmi, appreciate the comment and honesty. I came across your post from a Google search for homelessness and Melbourne that does a weekly search for me, and I have been impressed by your own observations and comments. I trust Melbourne will be safe for you while you are in our city to study.
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