Not Alone

I've never lived in a city before without being in a college campus bubble. Living in such a sprawling city is daunting at times, yet exciting, and after having lived here for over a year now, I'd say I know my way around pretty well. I've walked all over the streets of central and downtown El Paso. I know the bus routes to get me to the places I frequent. I've made acquaintances of hotel workers, cashiers, security guards, bus drivers, and neighbours. But even with these people that I know, sometimes I feel alone in the middle of this big city. Sometimes I wonder what would happen if I made myself scarce for a while. How long would it take people to realize? I wonder how many others feel the same way. And what can I do to make a difference? How can one person change anything?

Well, I found out the other day. I was on my way to a friend's house, and was waiting by the bus stop. There was still a good 15 minutes time till the next bus came, so I made myself comfortable on the ground a short way from the stop and pulled out my guitar to help the time go faster. As others trickled towards the stop, one man came my way, and using music as a conversation starter, he started asking questions and telling stories about his cat. He seemed content to talk, paying no attention to if I answered his questions or not, so I let him ramble on while I continued to watch the traffic and the people around. As the light turned red, one car pulled up near the bus stop. The woman inside rolled down the window, waved to get my attention, then gave me the 'all clear?' sign, as if asking if I was ok. I quickly affirmed that I was ok, and she drove off to wherever her life was taking her. I don't know her, we never even exchanged words, yet in those five seconds and with that one motion she let me know that she was watching out for me. God reminded me that I was not alone.

That is what I can do to make others know that they are not alone. I can care about the lives of those around me. I can let God's love overflow to touch the people I pass in the streets. I don't need to get to know people in order for them to know they are cared for, I just need to keep my eyes open.