This morning, as I sat in my car with a fresh cup of Starbucks coffee, I witnessed something that left a lasting impression on me. It wasn’t an unusual sight—a person, likely homeless, was sitting quietly outside the coffee shop. But what followed made me stop and think deeply about the fragile line between stability and crisis. The choices we all make can lead us down vastly different paths.

As I pulled into the parking lot, I noticed this person. From their appearance and the belongings they carried, it was clear they were facing hard times. They weren’t bothering anyone, just sitting and watching videos on their phone. But soon, I saw the Starbucks manager step outside to talk to them. Moments later, two police cars, a fire truck, and EMS arrived. Suddenly, this person was surrounded by first responders asking questions, and assessing the situation. In the end, they all left quietly, and the person remained, likely no better off than before.

What struck me most wasn’t the situation itself, but the realization that many of us are only a few missed paychecks away from a similar fate. According to some studies, the average American is just three missed paychecks away from homelessness. That’s a sobering thought. It made me wonder—what if I were in that person’s shoes? What choices or circumstances might have led to such a situation?

We often think of homelessness as something that happens to "other people." But the truth is, it can happen to anyone. Life is unpredictable, and a sudden job loss, a serious illness, or the end of a relationship could easily send any of us into a downward spiral. It’s not just about making bad choices; sometimes, life throws curveballs that we simply can’t control.

As I sat there in my car, looking out at my surroundings—my paid-off car, my coffee, my laptop—I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of empathy for this person. I’ve made my share of bad choices in life, just like everyone else. But today, I was reminded that those choices, combined with a bit of luck and the grace of God, have kept me from facing such dire circumstances.

This encounter also made me reflect on the power of our daily choices and the attitudes we project. How often do we rush through our days, consumed by our own problems, without stopping to consider the struggles others might be facing? How often do we judge people without understanding their stories?

Action Steps to Consider

1. Practice Empathy Daily: Make a conscious effort to put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Whether it’s a coworker, a stranger, or a friend, try to understand their perspective before jumping to conclusions. A simple smile or a kind word can make a big difference in someone’s day.

2. Support Local Charities: Consider donating your time or resources to organizations that support homeless individuals or those at risk of losing their homes. Whether it’s a local shelter, food bank, or crisis support service, every bit helps.

3. Plan for Unexpected Events: While we can’t predict the future, we can prepare for it. Start by building an emergency fund to cover at least three months of living expenses. This can help cushion the blow if something unexpected happens.

4. Be Mindful of Your Choices: Reflect on the choices you make every day. Are they leading you toward the life you want? If not, consider making small changes. Whether it’s improving your financial habits, seeking help for personal challenges, or fostering better relationships, your choices today shape your tomorrow.

So, I challenge you, as I’m challenging myself, to think about the choices you make each day. Think about how you treat others, especially those who may be struggling. Show kindness, extend empathy, and be grateful for the stability you have—because it’s something that could change in an instant.

And next time you see someone who’s down on their luck, remember: they’re not just a statistic. They’re a person, just like you and me, who has a story, and who, for whatever reason, is facing a tough time. A little compassion can go a long way.

Life is unpredictable, and sometimes, the best thing we can do is to be kind, be empathetic, and be there for each other.