Let me tell you about Moe and why I invite strangers on occasion to crash on my couch. Sounds nuts, right? And while it may be for some, it isn’t for me.

If you know me at all, you know that I'm deeply rooted in my faith and firmly anchored by the God of my understanding. It's my first priority in life. So having said that, it shouldn't be much of a surprise that I share my shelter. This action is so simple to me… when I was homeless and strange in this land, searching for kindness you held out your hand. Any good Catholic – and some of us who aren’t so good but remember what we learned in Catechism – know that line from an old hymn, which is clearly rooted in scripture.

Now I’m not going to go all Jesus-freak on you’re here, I’m just going to introduce you to Moe and tell the world why I always extend my home. I just feel called to serve some people. That sounds so grandiose! :) Believe me, it's much less so.

Six months ago, I was standing near the corner of 8th Ave. and 43rd St. when this high-spirited soul bumped into me. I looked at him and proclaimed, "where have you been?" And he looked back at me and proclaimed, "No! Where have YOU been?!" Well, I continued, "I've been waiting for you!" So... the funny exchange began. Often after that when I'd be in that area, I'd catch up with him. We'd chatter about the state of the world, the state of our existence, and the state itself! He is absolutely one of the most positive and engaging people I've met in a very long time. Remarkably intelligent.

His "back story" really isn't important. Moe is the most high-spirited, foreward thinking, deeply faithful, kind, and generous soul I've ever known. I've watched him literally give away what he'd just received in terms of a meal. And I've watched him exhibit the deepest respect and courtesy to strangers. It never ceases to amaze me.

And that, my friends, is why I open the door... because the greatest lessons in life I've received have been from those with whom I've shared shelter... those without an anchor... those without. It is those that often have so much to give and to share.

I really believe that to whom much has been given, much is expected. I didn't make that up. It's one of my mother's lines. I just agree.

So without further adieu, world... I give you my dear friend Moe! (Click on the attachment below)

And then listen to one of my favorite songs.