davidcourtney

Today as I was leaving campus I bought a homeless man, who is always begging for whatever people have, some juice. I was walking past our union and saw him watching some religious fanatice wave their "Fags go tot hell" banner while ranting and raving to the disdain of the open-minded. I went into the union and bought this man an orange juice and what followed was the most intelligent conversation I've had in five years of dealing with academics. This stinky, ratty, disheveled bum sitting outside the doors of my fair university had more knowledge, wisdom, and insight that anyone on that campus, present company included. He hit the nail on the head when he broke down these poor confused biggots rant for what it really was and was able to logically and clearly tell me what was wrong with it and why it won't work. It made me feel very good to have a conversation with this man and to see that while the people in power make the rules, have all of the money, and control most outcomes, it's those who have the least that actually have the most. This man was able to see clearly and understandably because he had nothing and his only concern was being. This is the knind of knowledge I hope to attain. I've tried for years now to find it in meditation and buddhist teachings and scripture, I just need to let go of everything. I have a new friend now who said the smartest thing that I have EVER heard:

"If I tell you that the fucking bridge is out and you choose to continue on, it's your own damn business. I can just point you in a direction"

-His name is Abe-