Jim

Today I met Jim on the corner of High Street and Chemeketa.  Originally from California, he moved to Oregon many years ago looking for a better life.  Jim has been houseless for the last 6 years and told me his health issues are getting worse.  "It's hard sleeping on the ground," he said.  "My knees are shot and it gets real cold."  

We talked for a good while and learned that we are both the same age - 54.  Jim laughed out loud when I told him that today is my birthday.  "Born in '65 just like me!" he chuckled.  I laughed, too.  It was an unexpected birthday treat to meet Jim today - his laugh made my day so much better.