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Massage for the Homeless? (2)
Some could call it a luxury good, others a necessity, but most of us would agree that massages are something you get when your basic needs are met. Not surprisingly, as i heard that the place i volunteer at (a women's homeless shelter) was offering massages for its residents, I was rather surprised. "Why is that necessary?" - i wondered.

It wasn't until i met with the program coordinator that i realized the importance of this so called "luxury" good. The homeless have had a long history of hardships, often accompanied with physical abuse. In the mind of a homeless person, touch is often associated with pain. Have you noticed how a beggar on the street will first retrieve if you reach out to him not with money, but with another object (like a bagel)? This reaction is due to their expecation of hurt when another human being approaches them.

Massages, on the other hand, make one feel nice. She relaxes and most importantly, trust another person's touch. Therefore, massages, some argue are as important as food and shelter, because they not only relax the muscles, but also rejuinate and strenghten the soul.
 
 
Tags: Homeless, massage
Posted By: Firsttry Posted Today Personal Story
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