Homeless Romantic.
In recent months, Sandler has grown quite fond of homeless people. It all began when we passed out Special Olympic sundry bags to people in need around the area. He studied the zip lock bags filled with goodies and asked about each and every item. He was so curious why someone would need things like deodorant, a razor, chewing gum, gift cards, wet wipes, etc. I explained that not everyone has an income or home, and many people are in a position where they cannot afford necessities. My explanation was not well received. He thought it was ridiculous that we had everything we needed while there were people who did not even have a roof over their head—let alone transportation or food.
After he passed along his bag, the gentleman on the receiving end smiled from ear to ear and gave a heart felt thank you. Sandler immediately became a philanthropist and advocate for the homeless. Now every time we pass someone standing on the corner with a sign Sandler yells, “Mommy! You need to give that person some money and food. Or, we can take them to our house and give them some candy?” In Sandler’s world, candy, ice cream, and skateboarding will fix just about everything. He would happily offer a dripping, chocolate mess or a ride on his skateboard to anyone who looks like they may find it beneficial.
There was an instance that encapsulated Sandlers humanity for the less fortunate in particular. One evening we had to go grab a few things from the drug store. As we left the with our bag full stuff—and Sandler with his over flowing cup of ice cream—he happened to notice a gal sitting with a cardboard sign on the curb. I tried to distract him from striking up a conversation with her. I grabbed his hand and struggled to lead him to the car. He was soon engaged in a full exchange with her. He stood staring at the woman and started the dialog by asking if she was homeless (yet another moment seconds from a heart attack). She kindly stated that she was in fact homeless and had nowhere to go. He then asked her what her sign said. She obliged by reading it to his sympathetic ears. He immediately called me over and said, “Mommy, this is my new homeless friend and you should give her some money and a ride!”
As convincing as Sandler can be, I have learned to awkwardly smile and bid adieu. Nevertheless, such exchanges are never put to rest without reflection when experienced through Sandler’s innocent eyes. It is invigorating to experience how Sandler can simply solve some of the world’s biggest problems, and then skateboard away wielding a melting ice cream.
- Nikki