Friends

Friends
Inseparable friends, Tom and Bill hang out everyday, work their schedules around one another, sometimes spat as only the best friends can. Cheerfully ready to help someone out, they are very quick to volunteer their friend also. “Yeah, I’ll just go get…”

Funny and charming early in the day, these two likable men liven up a room with laughter and amusing stories.

They do have a third constant companion. Visited everyday, this warmly welcomed guest doesn’t always behave well with them, in spite of the love: Alcohol.

Not comfortable unless the three of them have their plan set out for the day, Tom and Bill review a morning routine that includes a sociable visit with their third companion, and discuss the plans for the three of them through the day.

This third wheel, alcohol, takes over during the course of the day, influencing thinking and actions, deciding who is friend or foe, making decisions about what is immediately important. And then the ultimate is imposed – daily induced semi-amnesia that impairs any decision to contain this sometimes fickle companion.

These friends have a history of living on, or close to, the streets. Now in permanent supported housing, they are beginning to feel comfortable enough in housing to address health issues. They are forming other friendships. Non-judgmental staff are able to encourage and suggest healthy behaviour. They are participating in social activities within housing, and within community.

The hope is for these friends to embrace a healthy life, to share their good humour with others. It may be a long journey, but I, for one, am cheering for them!