by “Blanche Belvidere”
I’m thinking about the feedback I’ve heard and how I should wrap up this series on homelessness.
How fantastical it has been! People discuss it around me and with me. I’ve learned that a few are authentic judgemental asshats – however, I continue to protect Blanche’s identity. “She said WHAT?!” I wouldn’t want to ruin the eye-opening sociological study this has become. Frankly, I don’t need that negativity in my life, so don’t expect to hear from me anytime soon. You’ve shown the core of who you are, and turns out you’re a bunch of boobs pretending to care about people. Isn’t it always the loud ones that claim to be sooo accepting of all people and those that are all “Let your freak flag fly”? Yeah…posers. Reality is one harsh bitch when you live in an idealistic world. I only suggest allowing a few unhoused to camp in your nice yard.
NO? Ok. Guess that’s a little too up close and personal.
I’ve learned that many folks still can’t wrap their heads around the vast seriousness and all the layers of this crisis, even when it’s laid out in front of them. And I gave you just the tip because the full Monty would make your head explode.
People are more focused on figuring out who “Blanche” is than comprehending the material written.
I’m not sure why it matters. Would it be of concern had this been a dating advice column? If parts or all of the articles make you uncomfortable, ask yourself why? I mean, it is an unpleasant and rather touchy subject. Maybe you learned something opposite to what you thought or believed. It’s ok to say, “Hey, I didn’t know that!” Others can keep on keepin’ on – thinking the reason for all of this is as simple as “No one wants to work.”
News flash, you nincompoops: there are many working unhoused people. They serve your coffee and your meals. They work at businesses you patronize. Be mindful. Be kind. And I say that from experience.
Nothing written was an opinion except my personal story. It was all a statement of facts. No side was taken, and both shared equally. Nor did I take a political stance. Everyone has free will and can feel however they wish about it.
No solutions were suggested, and I did this deliberately. It was strictly informational – it’s up to the reader to recognize the core of the problem and fight to change THAT. And the more people read between the lines and figure it out, the faster that change will occur.
So if your mission is to help people, point your efforts in the right direction.
Yes, we have a severe substance abuse problem. Yes, we have a significant breakdown in our behavioral health system. Yes, we have a lack of low-threshold housing. No denying any of it.
And absolutely, we have a decent size handful that is partaking in criminal activity, negatively affecting businesses and residents alike. No bueno – and where do you draw the line?
I deal with each layer of this bull-shite daily, and I certainly don’t enjoy stepping in it when I try to walk into a restaurant. This is coming from someone with an enormous heart for the homeless. Oh, and anyone that believes ADUs will solve the lack of “affordable” housing problem is grossly misinformed. It creates some market-rate apartments. Bravo. Nothing against them – but don’t use that excuse because it “feels good” or might get you more votes. That’s a rant for another day…
Get excited, Blanche will return with another giant glass o’ “Fine Whine.” Perhaps not on this subject, but there is no shortage of nonsense to discuss. And I’m here for it.
I do what I do – tootle-loo!
