Tonight was our weekly service at the homeless shelter. This facility is different than the others operated by the Hogar de Cristo group in that it allows those who are under the influence of alcohol to eat and stay as long they behave.

I think the guy in charge grew tired of my struggles to understand the clients when they were being processed to enter for the night so he took that responsibility back. Not having much to do, I helped a man whose foot defies description get his dinner. Later, I went looking for him outside where the smokers sit.  Several clients asked me to sit down to talk to them.

 Meet Fabian, Esteban, Oscar and _____ (my bad memory, again).

We had an enjoyable, long conversation that covered many topics. In the midst of some levity, Fabian wanted to talk seriously about the fact that they are alcoholics and what that means. They wanted me to know that they are good people who are respectful to others and that they are very careful to look after each other.

They are good people and my heart goes out to them. I think all four of them have had to rely on the Hogar de Cristo for many years.

Here is a better picture of them.