I parked my car and went around to the trunk to get some canvas bags out. That’s when I heard someone call from across the lot, “Do you have an extra pair of gloves?” I turned and saw a homeless man sitting on the cement propped up against the wall of CVS. I rummaged through the trunk sure that I had left an extra pair there, but upon finding nothing I had to say no.
I started to walk to the entrance of the pharmacy, but found myself walking toward the man instead.
As I approached him I reached into my pockets searching for my gloves. Holding my new turquoise knit gloves in each hand, I offered them to him.
He held up his hands for me to see. “My hands are swollen,” he said. “I don’t think that they will fit me.”
“They stretch,” I answered. “Give them a try.” He wiggled his hands in, they stretched, and a smile came to his face. “Bless you,” he grinned.
I started to walk away and he asked my name. “Ellie, what’s yours?”
“Wolf,” he answered.
“It’s nice to meet you, Wolf.”
“Bless you, Ellie. I’m available to work. I just want you to know.”
“Okay, thanks Wolf, I’ll keep you in mind.”
Apparently the cashier had noticed the man and had called the police. When I came out, the police were kindly talking to him about options of where he could go. Those options must have been so limited. He picked up his belongings and walked out of the parking lot carrying a small backpack and wearing my gloves. Later that night I had wished that I had gone into the store and bought him some water and snacks. I’ll remember that next time for sure.
I am in greatful tears