We Still Sell the Paper on the Coldest Days of the Year

by Michael Boyd

I awoke one cold day in March at about 7:30 a.m. I did not want to get up, but now that I have an apartment, I have no choice. Bills have to be paid.

I left the house at 8:30 a.m. and went to St Augustine Church to have lunch. I saw faces that I have not seen in a while, like June who works for Sister Corita, Fish and Jack. After I got a few clothing items from the church and ate lunch, it was time to go to work. Even though it’s bitter cold outside, I go to work because I still have to pay the bills or be homeless.

I see a few people that I know, who choose to give me money even though they already have the paper. The guy at the hot dog stand lets me eat, even though I may be a little short on money.

There is a lady who has a vegetable stand, Connie, who gives me produce and such; that really helps me out. Then I see the flower man named McGuyner, who helps me out by giving me flowers sometimes.

My shift is over. I made $26. Even though I didn’t make much money, I was able to spread the word about donating various items to St. Patrick’s, St. Augustus, and the West Side Catholic Center.

The day was a good day.

P.S. – I would like to give a special thanks to a young man who gave me a picture.

Copyright Cleveland Street Chronical and NEOCH June 2015