In honor of the holidays, this story is about how a homeless man in Munich experiences them.
The streets of his city, usually harsh and unforgiving, take on a different hue during Christmas. John, a homeless individual since 2017 due to tragic life events, finds this time of year particularly challenging yet heartwarming. He talks about the cold that drives him into shelters, the smell of sweat mingling with warmth, and the overfilled rooms offering respite from the biting winter.
John’s routine changes during the holidays. On Christmas Eve, he doesn’t plan on having breakfast, anticipating the abundance of food available throughout the day. He describes his plans to attend two church services, visit a social welfare organization, and join a dinner hosted by both Catholic and Protestant churches. The church, for John, is a sanctuary of peace and humanity, a place where everyone is welcome regardless of their social standing.
The narrative also explores how John’s life adapts to the winter season. Summer evenings spent watching sunsets and enjoying music at U-Turm give way to seeking shelter in the evenings, finding ways to pass the time until he can retreat to his sleeping spot. He speaks candidly about the difficulties of the cold, the necessity of finding shelter from the rain, and the increased expenses of winter.
Central to John’s winter survival is his sleeping bag, an item so vital that he carries it everywhere after having it stolen twice. He discusses his strategies for the coldest nights, including seeking refuge in overnight shelters for the homeless.
The story also touches on the public’s attitude towards the homeless during winter, noting an increase in generosity and empathy. John comments on the helpfulness of clothing donations and the realities of substance use among the homeless. He emphasizes the importance of food availability, crediting the various support centers in the city.
Through this narrative, you can gain a glimpse into the complex life of a homeless individual during the holiday season, a time of contrasting experiences of warmth and hardship.
