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Jan Peppler's avatar

Wow. I really appreciate you spotlighting Smithson and his situation. Homelessness is a huge problem and we tend to sweep it under the rug. I've worked at shelters and soup kitchens and even then it can be challenging to have the kind of conversations you shared with Smithson: the honesty and the depth. Thank you for introducing him to us. xo

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Anne Kadet's avatar

Thanks Jan! You know, it really was a privilege to spend time with him. He is a tough cookie!

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Emily's avatar

Oh man, that was a tough one. I wish the best for Smithson and I certainly we hope we hear from him again. Wonderful post, as always.

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Anne Kadet's avatar

Thank you Emily! I hope I can update with some good news soon.

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Bb's avatar

Thanks for the article, Anne. I think it’s great to have the unicorn, butterfly and rainbow articles and these ones. An article like this is real- he is an inspiration, working his butt off and trying to make this thing called life work.

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Anne Kadet's avatar

Thanks Kyle! Next week: Five Puppies Who Donated Their Kidneys to Kittens

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Bb's avatar

Those puppies are TRULY inspirational!!! And then the next article, to keep the alternating dark and light themes going, the kittens die because they can't handle Puppy kidneys.

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B.A. Lampman's avatar

Oh man. Maybe the fellow at Humans of New York would be interested in his story, and some kind of fundraising could be started for him?

...honybrandon@gmail.com is his contact.

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Mark Dolan's avatar

This was an unexpected change of tone AND a great post. Great story of perseverance. Sometimes, at least for me, the "like" just doesn't feel right as it didn't fit my mood after reading. If there is such a thing as bad karma, I wish it on the thiefs who robbed him...

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Anne Kadet's avatar

Thanks Mark. I know what you mean about liking. Remember when it was the only option on Facebook, and then you'd have to "like" it when your friend posted about his mom dying?

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Mark Dolan's avatar

On all social media platforms I consider the like a nervous tic...your example perfect

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Feb 21, 2022
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Anne Kadet's avatar

Yes, these platforms are such a double-edged sword. Creators can forge their own way and reach huge audiences, but they are also weirdly at the mercy of these black hole systems. Thanks for wishing him well!

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