Last night I had a visit from the police, which was not the first time.  This guy however woke me up by knocking on my window.  I told him my story and gave him my ID.  After he checked that I wasn’t wanted anywhere and that my car (with expired registration) wasn’t stolen he wished me a goodnight and left me alone.  He had given me the speach that I was on private property, but as long as no one complains he has no problems.  No complains, no crimes, I am welcome to stay where I am at in the cops eyes.  Considering the problems I read about in the paper I think he is more interested in drug dealers and gangs, than Army vets sleeping in cars while looking for work.

Then this morning I slept in a little as I was up later than I wanted waiting for a download to finish before I could move the car into my parking space.  I recieved a second knock on my window.  Some elderly man who claims to walk by every day noticed that my car was parked in the same spot for the last couple days, and also noticed someone was sleeping in it.  Supposedly after a conversation with some other people in the nearby grocery store he decided to introduce himself and hear my story.

I told him I am homeless, and get unemployment which is enough too survive, just not enough to get an apartment.  I ensured him that I have everything I need, told him about my gym membership for a shower, and that I am here cause it is safer then told him my story about my break in.  I left out the part with my wife and tried to keep it simple.  A guy that comes knocking on a strangers window out of concern seems like he will easily fill an empty hand extending whatever he can.  I don’t want charity, and am well aware that by applying for wel-fare in the state of California they won’t give much money, but they will give an apartment, which is all I need.

The man was very sincere and at one point I felt like he wanted to give me a hug as I could hear the compasion and concern in his voice.  I assured him I have everything, my car is a 2007 Chevy and is in good condition.  He commented back that it was a nice car, and we made a joke about owning such a new car, but being homeless.

Sad as it sounds to say that I am homeless, I am not a bum.  I have enough money for food and gas, a gym membership to take a shower, shave, and brush my teeth.  A laptop, which I can use to get on the internet at Starbucks, and an AC converter for the car which lets me charge my cell phone and laptop.  I have everything, just no place to call home.  As long as no one complains about my presence then I am ok.

I think because I do portray myself as a homeless vet who is eager and shows the ability to work it is giving me a little more leaninacy towards living like I am.  I am polite and don’t put my hand out trying to get sympathy.  I’m not panhandling I am sitting in the corner and showing my independance.  My story might have its sad points, but I don’t let it get me down and I don’t use it too my advantage.  I look on the bright side and people see that, which is possibly the reason that I am able to park my car in the back corner of the parking lot near homes and no complaints.  At least that is what I am hoping.  I like this place as it is tested, and I believe it too be safe.  I should be looking for an alternative parking space in the event I am told to leave, but I think if I just leave the present police juristiction being told to move a second time won’t be portrayed as a second time.