Jason: A Homeless Craftsman with a Heart of Gold

Jason is a man whose circumstances might label him as homeless, but whose extraordinary talent for fixing things has made him a special friend within our Community.
I had the privilege of meeting Jason a year ago, and I am sharing this story because I believe it shows how, Generosity and kindness can be applied both by Giver and Receiver.

Jason has a talent for repairing bikes. Whether it’s a simple flat tire, a squeaky chain, or more complex problems, Jason can take care of it.

Many bikers have come to rely on Jason for his repair services. The trust he has built over time is something that can’t be overlooked. When I first met him, I was astounded by the number of bikes he was keeping near him, as he slept close to the sidewalk. Many had entrusted him with their bikes. That spoke volumes about his skills and the goodwill he had earned among the locals.

I, too, had the pleasure of being one of Jason’s clients. My bicycle had seen better days, and I decided to give him a shot at repairing it. Not only did he do a fantastic job, but he did it with a level of dedication and precision that you’d expect from a seasoned professional. The moment of truth arrived when I asked him how much I owed him for his services.

What Jason said next left me humbled and touched by his Generosity. He told me that, for me, it was free. He mentioned that we, at The Give Back Community, had been feeding him and his friends every week, and this was his way of Giving Back. It was a powerful reminder that kindness knows no bounds. Jason was living proof that even in difficult circumstances, there’s always room to extend a helping hand.

A week later, in a small act of gratitude, I decided to bring Jason a token of appreciation. I remembered him mentioning that he liked my jeans jacket, and it felt fitting to offer it to him. When I did, the gratitude in his eyes was unmistakable. It was a small gesture, but it symbolized the reciprocity of kindness and how, sometimes, the most meaningful connections are built on the foundation of giving and receiving.

Go Beyond 
Umberto