I ran across a homeless man cleaning windshields along I-45 on
the North side of Houston a couple weeks ago. As he was squeegeeing my
windshield he suddenly stopped having noticed a small sticker on the passenger
side of the windscreen promoting my new book “Don’t Run Naked Through The
Office” and exclaimed, “Wow, what’s that?!”
In the few seconds before the light changed, I explained to
him that my new book provided guidance for people who were frustrated with
their jobs. He surprised me with his sincere interest and the comment, “I’d
like to read that!” My standard response kicked in, “It’s available on Amazon”
to which he quickly glanced at his pile of belongings under the I-45 overpass. I
got the message, “I’ll bring one by for you!” Just then the light changed and he
nodded somewhat unconvincingly as he backed out of traffic.
This morning I made good on my offer to him as I stopped for
the light at that same intersection. There he was with his half-smile, positive
attitude, and ready to wash my windows! At first, I didn’t say anything as he
was cleaning my windshield but then just like before he noticed the sticker and
said, “Hey, I know you!” This time, I was prepared. I had a book in a plastic
grocery bag wedged in beside the passenger seat waiting for him. “Here,” I said
handing him the book. “I brought this for you.” He responded with surprise in
his voice. “Thanks, man!” he exclaimed taking the book, “I mentioned this to my
buddy.” Just then the light changed. “You’re welcome!” I told him. I’ll drop by
again in a couple weeks. Would like to hear your thoughts after you’ve read it!”
Someone behind me honked and so I moved on with the traffic.
All day, thoughts have been circling in my head. Where does he stay at night? Does he make
enough cleaning windshields for a healthy meal? Does he have a family? Is he a
vet with issues? Did he lose his job? Did he ever have a regular job? What path
in life brought him to this intersection where he cleans windshields to survive
another day?
My book provides
advice for people who are have a job or are looking for a job, not people who
live under bridges. I explain the four types of workplace environments and how
to navigate the challenges of each. I cover how to assess the risk of being
proactive in a non-supportive workplace environment and the benefits of being
self-managed in all environments. I lay out a clear process for refining a
professional image and enhancing a professional foundation. I wondered if there
were anything I had written in those pages that would be useful for him. Maybe
back when he had a regular job, if he ever did, and the boss was yelling in his
face about some inconsequential matter. But now, in his current situation,
would he find anything that I had written of use?
I don’t know if I’ll ever see him again or if I’ll ever find
out what he thinks of my book. I do know the cover and title caught his
interest and even when I told him what the book was about he still wanted to
read it. Part of me hopes he’s still under that bridge in a couple weeks, so I
can hear what he learned from my book. And yet, another part hopes he’s found
more suitable housing!
Your thoughts on this current and important topic are welcome!
Fred Stawitz
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