LISTEN!

Being able to travel around the city whenever I feel like it is a blessing and a curse. A blessing because I realize that not everyone has been granted the freetime or funds to do this, and a curse because I always manage to see one thing that makes my stomach churn and turn over. Normally (actually nine times out of ten) it is the same thing.

Oily hair, dirty faces, and soiled clothing are seemingly transparent to the people who walk over them, and avoid eye contact with anyone deemed less than worth caring about by society. Adults and teenagers alike, shopping bags in hand, change in pocket that will probably be lost in the washing machine anyway. By no means are they obligated to our money but as human beings they're deserving of our attention.

Heading to the Kimmel Center yesterday, wrapped in cap in gown "Congratulations" echoed the entire street. Acknowledged by thank you's and smiles. But when we reached the corner of Chestnut Street my friend chose to ignore one particular greeting.Instead of getting angry the man sitting on a dirty blanket with an empty cup in his hand spoke calmly instead,"A well wish is a well wish no matter where it comes from. I had a daughter who graduated too.". My friend didn't turn nor did she show any signs of having heard anything at all, she just crossed the street.

I've been that one, I've said "Get a job" Before I even had thoughts of employment for myself.Downtown there are droves and droves of teenagers clad in the latest "streetwear" or Ralph Lauren saying the same thing, when they're walking around spending their parents money. And if they're not spending their parents money, they're spending money of theirs that doesn't have to go to mortgages, rent, car payments, heating bills, hospital bills, etc. Our generation has nothing of the sort to worry about, so it seems like helping others should be a given, right? You shouldn't have to have your arm twisted or ears pulled to give a meal and a smile, right?

My gripes aren't just limited to the homeless, but a sense of apathy for humanity period. I don't support many local clothing ventures or party teams for the same reason. Really, really I could care less about any brand that is benefiting no one other than it's few team members and has no standing whatsoever. There are children in Haiti forced to eat cookies made of dirt because there is nothing else to fill their stomachs, and we're expected to throw our money at your mediocre designs and ideas..why?

A benefit barbeque is in the making. Featuring local artists and brands. We Ride Septa's yet to be announced brand will also be in full force. All proceeds from said brand and admissions will be going towards a yet to be determined charity.

Look forward to more information in the coming weeks.