Don't Look Away

From the Buckland Romani Tarot, the Five of Bolers (Wheels/Coins); from the Lakota Sweat Lodge Cards, Yum (Whirlwind):

          Even the pronunciation of the word 'destitute sounds hard and abrasive. The unemployed, the disabled (mental or physical) and the addicted seem to be found everywhere these days, holding signs that ask for food or money. Most I can easily ignore - except when they have kids with them. Sure, maybe it is just a con to rake in more money, but it's hard to overlook those little faces. It reminds me there are lots of reasons to be desperate that don't always have to do with money. Whirlwind represents that rush of tenderness and love we can suddenly feel for others, like when watching the news and seeing the losses caused by floods or tornadoes. It can be overwhelming to observe, whether that devastation appears on a street corner holding a sign or standing in front of what used to be their home. I am reminded by these cards that ignoring the problem does not make the problem go away. I can't solve these issues, but I can do small acts of kindness such as give a donation to the Red Cross, buy someone a meal or support legislation that will provide better mental health services for veterans, addicts and those with mental illnesses. Above all, simply acknowledging their existence goes a long way.