Week one

 My first experience with this project was completed today. I have thought about different kinds of people I may meet, yet each time will hold the suspense at an equal level.
 I set out with a sandwich and piece of fruit and just happened to have those old school brown paper bags. Usually the only time some thing you want some thing from a brown paper bag is when you are hungry.
  I started driving towards a park, and was prompted to go some where else. Just as I park behind the Riverside YMCA I see a man picking through the trash.I immediately introduce myself as I offer him this food. Just on the Riverwalk he has some benches with his things. Tyrone and I sat with many people running, walking, and biking past us. He is 56, and a Jacksonville native. He has been staying outside for about 3 years now. He decided to have a simple life and really liked the outdoors any way. He is able to run some extension cords out to a shed at a shop that he helps clean. He told me he has a TV, DVD player, little frig, and an air mattress. He has to wait till night to go.He spends time cleaning and helping at the shop as well as most of his time along the river walk. He goes to the Salvation Army for breakfast on Sundays, and has a method and schedule of hook up spots to stock up on food. He says he has all he needs in life.
  He stays to himself and away from the larger crowd which stays around the Landing more, he says most are drunks and there are also many cops. About 2 years ago they cracked down and will take people to jail for "camping". I often thought it I was home less I would want to go to jail to have food and shelter. He said it is bad because it is so cold and you are stuck with criminals. He simply choices to live a life with less over head. He stated he doesn't have the head aches and stress that so many others do. He is some one who has chosen this life because it is relaxing to him.
 He has family here, but doesn't see them much out of choice as well. His brother does come to see him and bring him bootleg DVD's. He refer often to how much he enjoyed watching movies, and didn't like sports at all. He was completely sober, and doesn't like being around people who drink all the time. Any one can live out doors if they are able to find organize things. He says most people waste so much, and with that all of his needs are met.
  When I asked him about the lesson in life he has found much value from he told me it was to treat others the way you would want to be treated, always be ready to help others. He also stated that is why he has never been with out.
  Upon leaving he repeatedly thanked me for the food and the talk and let me know that he was in the same spot a lot.
  I felt good, and was thankful to have a conversation with some one able to carry one out.
  I look forward to next week.