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| America’s Lonely Highways Robert H. Gilbert, Jr. 10 July, 1992 |
| I was traveling down America’s highway one afternoon in my big rig, and decided to find a a Truck stop to get a few hours of rest. Usually I try to find a Truck stop in the direction I was going, but for some reason I chose a Truck stop on the left. I pulled in and found a place to park. I set my brakes and decided to read the newspaper before going to sleep. I was beginning to read the first page when I looked up and noticed a sort of Hobo looking guy wondering over to my truck. I said, “Oh No, another Bum”. He was unshaven, clothes were wrinkled and filthy, and not taken a bath in months. He must have used his pants as a pillow at night. That’s how bad he looked. He was not carrying too much luggage with him, just a bag full of dirty clothes. I wondered how he made out on the cold winter nights.. |
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| He came over to my truck and asked is he could borrow (I should say bum), some money for a cup of coffee. I asked him, “How long you been seeing this great country of ours. He said, “ At first it was a walk around the block, then it was two blocks, then finally I just kept walking and never looked back“. Why he had left he really did not know, but he had left and wife and son at home. He had been gone now for about 5 years, so his son should be about 17. I just shook my head and gave him some money for some coffee. He started walking away, and for some reason I called him back and gave him some more money for food, shower. I said, “You will never know when a job opportunity might come your way”. Though I doubt he would take it. He’s been free for too long. He thanked me for the extra money and headed for the restaurant. |
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