I've had a bellyfull of privileged statements lately--

 It's cold again. Very. And I can't help but think of those who are living rough, who are unhoused or are "couch surfing" from patient friend to patient friend. Most of us are just a paycheck or two away from making those same hard choices. 

The overnight shelter in Littleton is open, and there is a giving tree at the Coop with needs tags for them. There is an ongoing collection for basic necessities to benefit those who are having a rough time. There are several "little free pantry" sites. But it's not enough, and the need is growing. 

When I hear from certain pundits that prices are down all over, that gas is about 2.00 a gallon, that an extra dollar or two won't break anyone... I get steamed. Seriously angry. How dare they spout such fallacies? I've read "so what if beef is a dollar or two more a pound" too many times lately. When hamburger is a luxury item, there is something radically wrong. 

Health care costs are already spiking, SNAP benefits are being threatened in yet more ways, and frankly, anyone who supports these draconian cuts cannot possibly call themselves Christians. Or even good humans. Or even human, really. 

How dare they smirk and talk about twin lobster tails at exclusive resorts as if it's on everyone's grocery list? How dare they laugh at the poor and hurt, lonely and confused, and downright abused in our midst? The numbers are frighteningly high on both sides: the overweeningly privileged and the struggling poor. I can tell you, most of us are a lot closer than we'd like to think to the second group. And there is no need for that group to even exist in a country that generates so much wealth, food, and so on-- the machinery that creates poverty is up and running full tilt. 

I don't think there's a medal on a wide ribbon for that. 

Hug your loved ones. We must hold each other close, and pray for guidance in these dark days.

C



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