Underneath The Bridge Lays My Bed. In the alley way Lays My Home

Every morning I wake up…naturally. All while suspicious of a third force that may have messed with the time and made the night way too short, I make my bed and then make my way to the bathroom. Once there I’ll probably brush my teeth, take a bath and prepare for the day ahead.  For you and me all these things are quite mandatory and not at all unordinary. Given, for the majority of women the process may be more complex and much longer than I have described, give or take a few outfit, hairstyle and accessory changes. Other than that, all this is basic and part and parcel of the average Joe’s daily routine.



Gauteng | Sandton

Each morning I make my way through the notorious Noord taxi ranks in Jozi C.B.D to get to work on the other side of Jeppestown and each morning without fail, just as soon you  step outside you are met with a full on attack by the city raging war on all your senses. Loud bus engines whirring along, taxi hooting’s, vendors screaming product prizes at the top of their voices. With every corner you pass depending on where you are, you are either met by a K.F.C’s outlet ‘strong chicken smell or by a strong cocktail of urine, garbage and other stuff



Gauteng | Jeppestown

But while strolling along the city’s streets in your own world occupied by your own problems and issues, you notice something else. Every now and again, every other corner you navigate there are people sleeping on the streets wrapped in blankets and cardboard boxes. This is a common sight in the C.B.D so much so, people walking by are not even bothered and don’t seem to notice half the time. Somehow people sleeping in alleyways, parks and under bridges hasn't become unordinary at all.


Gauteng | Jeppestown

One thing that has really stood out for me during my interactions with some of these guys on the streets is that it could happen to anyone. Their stories could have easily been mine or yours. Yes there are those individuals who have completely sabotaged themselves in spite of opportunities presented to them; there are those who according to popular belief don't want to work. But they make up quite a small percentage of the entire homeless people fraternity. If anything, many work harder than most people I know who aren’t homeless.



Gauteng | Jeppestown

Just taking a minute and conversating with some of these guys is more valuable than throwing change at them.  I believe more than anything these people want to feel part of society, a society largely desensitized to ‘them’. Given some will try to get as much change from you as possible. Some though, were really surprised that somebody actually walked up to them to have a conversation. Take a minute and talk to one of these guys, they will make time for you in their busy schedule.



Gauteng | Alexander