This photograph along with my other one for today, act as a sobering reminder of the fragile state of our country.
This is Andrew. My main album photo shows Andrew in close up. This shot shows him sat on the freezing ground, doing the crossword in a discarded newspaper to pass the time.
Andrew is 48, it was his birthday on wednesday.
Andrew is homeless. He worked as a builder, but when people failed to pay him, he couldn't pay his mortgage. The bank took his house and his wife left him.
He now begs for money near Borough Market in London. I gave him some money, which he said would buy him a coffee, some hot food, and maybe a couple of pints in the local pub when it got cold.
He occasionally gets into a hostel for the night, but had slept in a park and lit a small bonfire on the evening of his birthday.
Andrew is 7 months older than me.
Our undemocratically elected politicians would do well to look at Andrew's story, and reflect on their own excesses, and the obscene way in which they continue to waste our money in so many ways. They should hang their heads in shame, but they won't.
I'm so convinced it can happen to all of us. A bunch of misfortunes, just one too much, happening at the same time and who knows what happens. Especially seeing someone of your own age makes this come very close. Brilliant shot and story.
Lovely thought-provoking commentary to go with the photo. I often think how easily we pass people begging in the street, not realising it could happen to any of us.
Yes, everything can be taken away so quickly. I wish Andrew some good fortune and hope he gets back on his feet. Sad story that could happen to anyone.
A thought-provoking picture that should make us reflect on our own very lucky circumstances and remind us not to take anything for granted. Out of interest, how did you broach the subject of photographing him? I have often wanted to but have always shyed away from it for fear of invading their privacy!
@trixiehiscock well you have to have the nerve to ask. I just asked him what his story was Trixie, you know, I think he was pleased to be asked. I told him about 365 and he was ok with me posting his story and photo.
@seanoneill I think that's amazing that you have taken the time to find out abit about him and then shared with us - thank you! We are all, very often, too quick to judge people, without knowing the real story.
I'm so sorry that this kind of condition simply exists in so many places. I love the social consciousness you bring to your photography, Sean - you are the kind of person who will push change!
Great image, just goes to show you can never get too comfortable. I have spoken with homeless people here and they have been happy to share their story with me too, I think a lot of people don't even acknowledge them so when someone takes a genuine interest in them and asks how they are, they are grateful for your time. My boss takes this one step further and has been known to take people home with her until they get back on their feet.
March 28th, 2013
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