As a veteran who has spent time in homeless shelters in San Diego while I attempted to juggle school and a part time job, I can empathize sincerely with those who are struggling to keep a roof over their heads. Every day is a struggle to survive. Every paycheck has to cover rent, transportation, miscellaneous bills, and (as sparingly as possible) food. It is one of many problems facing our nation just 11 years into the new millenium. If this is our present, what does our future hold?
Reactions to the problems of homelessness, hunger, unemployment, and medical care are as varied as the people who make up our great nation. Many flock to the "Occupy..." protests, offering to make signs or donate hard-earned cash. Others shake a finger and say "Shame on you. I'm not down there. Why should you be?" Who is right? Is there a right and wrong? Is it that simple? Where do we find the answers?
I believe there is a solution, but it will not be easy to find. For decades we have depended on our leaders in government to solve problems for us. They have been working hard over the last few months. Supposedly, new legislation is going to increase jobs for veterans. The VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) is pushing to solve issues involving GI benefits, access to VA (Veterans Administration) benefits, and other issues as they arise. Great job, leaders!
Now, it is our turn.
It is time to stop reaching out to others for help while we sit on our thumbs and cry "Why me?"
I cry that cry often, and I am tired of hearing it coming from my own lips. The Small Business Developement Center of Angelo State University (Texas) quoted Peter Drucker in their newsletter.
"The best way to predict the future is to create it."
I am about to create my own future, and I hope to help others do the same.
By posting my attempts to get into a better place, I hope to let others learn from my mistakes. Maybe we can turn this thing around one person at a time.
I have thought often of starting a business that supplies aid to other veterans. I believe I will begin my crusade there.
Step 1: Locate and meet with members of my local Small Business Developement Center. (SBDC)
I asked a representative that works with a local charity organization (one that offers veteran-specific aid as well as general assistance to those in need) how to get started. He gave me the address of the local SBDC and also advised me to contact the Chamber of Commerce. I will begin that within the next week, working around my work schedule, and will post results as I get them.
Until next time,
Vaya Con Dios
