Blog
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The Importance of Storytelling Saturday, July 25, 2009
Drive past 727 E. 11th Street on any given day around lunchtime and you will see a crowd of people outside, some laughing and conversing, others sitting quietly. It is home to the Chattanooga Community Kitchen, which has faithfully served the homeless population for almost 27 years. The Kitchen provides food, shelter, healthcare, jobs training, and several additional services to the homeless of Chattanooga.
I, along with four other fellows, spent yesterday afternoon at the Kitchen, to hear the stories and opinions of the people there. I spoke with Holmes, Ollie, Ernestine, Willie and several others, asking them to fill out Stand’s survey. Numbers of surveys collected was nothing to be concerned with; I just wanted to hear the stories of the men and women there. Some of you might say, “what a great thing to do,” as you read this, but just I wanted to remind you of the importance of story.
Rarely is it something that I think about in my daily routine; however, I get to share my story and the things that I care about with people every day at work, at home, and around town. Others talk to me and listen to what I say, but I wonder how many life stories go unheard in our city? Places like the Community Kitchen are often viewed as a nuisance an attraction for our city’s problems, but it is home to some and makes a difference in the lives of many—it is a community of people that share a common experience.
While it is as easy as walking past to separate oneself from the homeless, we share something: life. It is easy to forget but common experience and the sharing of those stories can be the difference for making it through to the next phase of life. Next time you’re downtown or in Miller Park, ask someone to share their story. It might make their day, and yours.
There are many opportunities to serve at the Community Kitchen. Call (423) 756.4222 or visit them online at http://www.homelesschattanooga.org/.
For some facts on homelessness visit http://www.homelesschattanooga.org/facts.html.
By Chris Nystrom, Culture Fellow
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