Protected

           We occasionally hear about the police rousting the homeless, chasing them away from their camps and tents. Certainly that happens now and again, for good or ill, but let me tell you a different story.
            Brian is a thoughtful, sensitive and jovial young man who spends his nights in an abandoned building in the city. He has found a cozy spot in an upstairs room, away from wind and windows. Of course there is no heat, light or water, but he is under a roof. Occasionally a friend or two stays with him, but usually he is alone. And content.
            Brian was describing a recent visit by two officers. They go into the building, trudge upstairs and find Brian. 
            “Hey, Brian.”
            “Hey.”
            “You OK?”  The police look around.
            “Yeah, I’m fine.  Thanks.”
            “We heard there might be some people shooting up around here. Is there anyone else on this floor?”
            “All I know is what’s going on right here.”
            “Fair enough, Brian.  Anyone giving you a hard time?”
            “Nope, but I can take care of myself if I have to.”
            “Alright, you take it easy now.”
            “I will. Thanks for checking.”
            “You have a good night now.”
            And the officers left.
            When Brian told me the story, I was impressed by how gentle and protective the police sounded. Certainly he felt protected by their visit – not harassed, not rousted, not judged or demeaned. 
            That impression has been confirmed by conversations with some of the officers who come into the Center. They know that the homeless don’t have many choices. They know that not everyone wants to stay in a shelter or risk being assaulted outside. A hidden place in an abandoned building is just the ticket for privacy. Of course that privacy can shield dangerous activity, or a young man who is simply trying to sleep safely in a harsh world.