The Man in the Green Jacket

 He Used to Be Angry

Working in a major city with a large homeless population, I often find myself interacting with those who have no place to call home. Pete was not the kindest man when he first started coming in but I never took it personally - it's hard to be nice when you're tired, cold, and hungry. He always wore a faded green jacket, ripped blue jeans, and dragged a large cart full of his stuff behind him. 

"Large Pike with five raw sugar and cream," he'd say bluntly before I had the chance to ask him how he was doing that day. 

My most memorable interaction of those early days with Pete was when he asked me about the pandemic. 

"I have no way to read the news, I don't know what's going on. When can I sit in here again?" 

I let him know what information I had, but after he left, my heart ached with the realization that so many don't have any access to resources about the current state of the world. 

One night, after I realized he'd been camping under the awning of a restaurant across the street, I offered to buy him a breakfast sandwich since I had received my cash tips that day. He was taken aback by the offer, but nervously accepted and muttered a small "thank you" paired with a smile (with his eyes, since I can't actually see his smile behind the mask). 

He Used to be in a Band

After a couple months, Pete became one of my favorite regulars. Whenever I saw him walking across the street, I would immediately begin to prepare his coffee to have it ready by the time he reached the register. Venti Pike with five raw sugars, cream, and a large straw. Don't forget the straw. 

Our conversations became longer and longer as the days passed. There were times when he would come in multiple times a day when he knew I was working so that we could talk. Pete loves to talk about anything and everything.

He told me about his band and his days as a drummer. His eyes were bright and full of life as he talked about his passion, and many times I am almost brought to tears when I hear the joy in his voice. 

"When I buy my drum set, I'll need to play for you all."

Yes, Pete. I would love nothing more. 

He'll Never Know He's my Inspiration

Pete, or Jalapeno as he's requested we call him, always tips. Whether it's two dollars or two cents, he always does it and it amazes me every time. If there is a day where he isn't able to tip, he apologizes profusely and I always let him know that it's no issue at all and he doesn't need to worry. 

I always knew I wanted to do my best to help others in every way I can, but Pete only solidified this mindset for me. I remember how happy I was for him when he told me he had a job, and his boss bought him a couple nights at a nearby motel. Part of me wishes I could win the lottery so I could do the same for him.

He no longer wears the worn out green jacket, and has been able to replace it with a new and warmer winter coat. He even has a phone now and tells me how he uses it to call his brother everyday. He walks with pride and confidence, and I'm filled with joy knowing how much his demeanor has changed over the last year. 

He still sleeps under the restaurant awning. Whenever I walk home after my shift, I always make sure to stop by and let him know to have a great rest of his day. He always appreciates it and wishes me a good day, too.

See you tomorrow, Pete.