On this past trip to San Francisco, I was delighted to stumble on a patio area- scattered with a handful of table and chairs - that has been constructed at the corner of 17th & Castro (where the quaint old European Street cars turn-a-bout to head back downtown).
For years, this corner was quite an eyesore, and amounted to a wasted desolate space.
Now, the busy corner is populated by an effervescent cross-section of locals and tourists alike - who stop and mingle - with the ultimate aim of taking a brief respite from the hectic bustling streets.
As I plunked myself down in the lazy afternoon sun, I spied one gentleman toss of his shirt, to catch a few rays in a bold-faced hedonistic attempt to perfect a golden tan.
For me, it was a great perch to take notes on the San Francisco scene, as the world - full of life and vitality - passed by.
At one point, my spirits were lifted considerably, when a rag-tag band of street minstels strode up.
The street performers - who referred to themselves as S.O.S. (Singers of the Street) - proceeded to hand out flyers about their entertaining venture - as they coaxed by-standers to join in and sing for Justice and Joy.
Every Wednesday, S.O.S. meets between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to spread their unique brand of comfort to the down-and-out in need of boot-strappiing up in these troubling economic times.
The generous motley crew is a San Francisco-based community choir that provides a voice, a face, and a place for seeking justice, healing, and joy for those living on the margins of society (especially folks who are homeless) according to their mission statement.
In addition to the opportunity to spread joy, participants enjoy other perks, too.
A free lunch is provided to the dedicated few who attend rehearsals, for starters!
If you're ready to take to the streets, and find a mission in life, contact the group.
S.O.S
Metropolitan Community Church
150 Eureka Street
San Francisco, CA
http://www.singersofthestreet.org/
Instruments needed, too!
