state street.
Conversation that occurred immediately after taking this photo:
Homeless Gentleman: “Excuse me, son.”
Me: “Hello.”
HG: “I’m a veteran. Do you happen to have any spare change?”
Me: “Oh man, not on me. Sorry.” (Usually true. I rarely carry cash.)
HG: “Are you sure? I just got out of prison for killing a guy.”
Me: (Thinking: Shit!) “Really. I never carry cash on me. I will check, though.” (I grab my wallet and find two dollars.)
HG: “Damnit. Here I am twice your age washing my socks in this fountain.”
Me: “I’ve got a couple bucks. All yours if you want it.”
HG: “Shit, man. Thats it? Do you have a debit card?”
Me: “Yes. Why?” (Wrong thing to say.)
HG: “There’s an ATM right over there. It’s a short walk. I can go with you.”
Me: “I’m sorry. I’d rather not right now.”
HG: “C’mon man. I’m a veteran and just got out of jail for killing a guy. I was just sleeping on that bench, there.”
Me: “You’re welcome to all the cash I have right now. I’m sorry it’s not more.”
HG: “Nah. That’s alright. That won’t buy me shit.”
Me: “Okay…” (Walking away briskly back through China Town.)
