The Queen and the Pauper

I heard it time and again prior to leaving, “London is my favorite city in the world.” University staff, tourism colleagues, friends and acquaintances all remarked that I would love my time in London while working at the Salvation Army 2015 Boundless Congress. They were not mistaken. London, England was everything I’d hoped it would be. But there was one sight I didn’t expect to glimpse in this town of palaces, pubs and high tea. Poverty.

While the primary purpose of my visit was to promote Sight & Sound Theatres® within the donut-shaped O2 Arena, the long exhibit hours gave way each night to a late sunset (after 10:00pm local time) and a plethora of tourist opportunities. One night it was Buckingham Palace, the next, Westminster Abby. But no matter where we ventured, as darkness approached, the beautiful postcard images were altered by panhandlers and the homeless seeking shelter.

I was stunned. I’ve had the privilege of traveling to many cities domestically. I’ve come to expect this scene in New York City and Chicago, but I was taken back in London. It simply blew my mind that only a few hundred yards from the Queen’s palace slept an impoverished pauper. I became more aware of the class system that still dominates the world we live in. On our third day in this lavish city, one man changed my view of the less-fortunate Londoners.

I don’t know this man’s name. Let’s call him Andrew. I found Andrew playing the electric guitar to a background track at the entrance to the tube’s Jubilee Line in Canary Wharf. He was quite talented and immediately caught my attention. As you can see, his hope was that passersby would throw a pound or two into his guitar case. They did. I did too. I was stunned by his talent, especially considering he only had one hand. Look closely. Andrew’s right arm is amputated just below the elbow. This is how good he sounded.

Our past need not define our future

I didn’t interrupt his playing to learn his story. I somewhat regret that now. What I do know is that Andrew isn’t panhandling. He is performing. He is taking responsibility for his life and taking action to move toward a better tomorrow. What Andrew is doing is colloquially called busking. We would call it street performance. I don’t know what past circumstances lead to Andrew busking for money, but I do know his past is not defining his future. He is.

We need to give others the chance to shine

Despite the poverty I witnessed, I still believe the United Kingdom is ahead of the game when employing social practices for the betterment of their society. Despite the fact that locals shared their unfiltered disdain for the monarchy, those who officially govern the island are providing ways for talented citizens to express themselves and make money. Look at the semi-circle below Andrew’s feet in the above image. This is an official busking area as ordained by the government. No matter what your income or education level, if you live in the U.K. and are willing to audition for the space, you too can be a busker. It takes a little hustle, but a pauper can become a performer.

#fromwhereIsit it is clear that past circumstances leave some people without food, clothing or shelter. This is absolutely heartbreaking. It is our responsibility to care about the impoverished and provide a way for them to shine. Nonetheless, those in this condition must also take personal responsibility and action to create a better future. I’m not suggesting we pay the way, but that we pave the way for their success.