Street Journal: Finding God in the Homeless : Selections from the Notebooks of Gary N. Smith, S.J

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Summary: The reality of living a life of service
Review: Street Journal is written from the personal diary Father Smith kept while the Director of Nativity House, a daytime drop-in centre for the street people of Tacoma, Washington's skid row. In this inspiring book, he shares personal stories of the people who frequented the centre as well as the day-to-day experiences of staff at Nativity House. For some, like me, who may harbour romanticized notions of working with the poorest of the poor, this book is a real eye-opener. The centre is often frequented by those who are dirty, have lice, are junkies, alcoholics, prostitutes, pimps and ex-convicts or fugitives, some of whom can be mean and/or violent. The depth of love, compassion and empathy that Father Smith and his staff have for these people is felt throughout the book. This is also the story of Father Smith's spiritual growth during this time. He is remarkably candid in describing how his interaction with these people changed not only many of their lives but his as well. Read this book and discover what it means to have a true heart of charity.