"Have you lived in DC all your life?”

“Yeah, I have, Mari,” replied Mr. W., one of my favorite patients at the homeless hospital where I recently began working. “I’ve seen a lot of change around DC too.”

Mr.
W. is one of the most endearing people I have ever met. He was shot in
the back a few years ago in a “wrong place, wrong time” situation. The
person who shot him actually meant to kill someone else, but tried to
kill Mr W. instead. Yet, he holds no malice against the person whose
gun and choice leaves him in a wheelchair. Partially because of his
schizophrenia, he has a child-like demeanor full of gullibility and
pleasantness.

“What kind of change have you seen?” I asked, curious to hear his answer.

Mr. W. thought for a moment.

“Well, you used to be able to go to the barber shop, and you didn’t have to make an appointment,” he replied.

Yes, Mr. W., you have seen a lot of change.