We've been in DC for a few days now, and we find ourselves frequently commenting on how tired we are. While this is true, it makes me think about the homeless we've been seeing and working with: we're tired because we aren't sleeping long enough or soundly enough in our dorm-style sleeping arrangements; but do the homeless ever feel rested? We can't sleep because someone in the next bed is snoring or their bed is creaking, but how do the people sleeping on the street ever get any real sleep? They have far more difficult sleeping arrangements than the ones we're working with. How long would it take (or would it ever happen) for us to adjust to the sounds of life on the streets? Do these people ever fall into a deep and restful sleep? Or is it night after night spent tossing and turning and just lightly dozing?
And what are the consequences if they don't get good rest? These people are already disadvantaged because of the situation they're in. Lack of sleep can only add to their problems, making them less able to deal with the issues they face in their lives.
Just a thought.
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