How a Sign Seller Uses Humor to Bring Comfort and Laughter to Strangers
Background and Inspiration
Sign selling, also known as panhandling, is a challenging and often misunderstood profession. For individuals like myself, who have experienced significant personal loss, this work serves as an outlet for sharing stories, bringing comfort, and maintaining a sense of purpose. Losing my wife of 23 years to renal failure 11 years ago has made every day a journey of grief and resilience. Sign selling, for me, is more than just a means to earn a living—it's an act of honesty and community engagement.
The Key to Success: Honesty and Humor
My approach to sign selling is simple yet profound: honesty and humor. Traditional sign sellers might expect a certain level of tolerance from society. However, I believe that by being genuine and embracing what I’ve taught my children, I can bring a unique perspective to the street. My signs have a purpose beyond just asking for help—they aim to inspire smiles and laughter in the face of adversity.
Sign Significance
One of my most impactful signs reads: "I interact with at least 500 different personalities a day and manage to bring laughter or smiles to 200–300 or more a day. It is difficult WORK." This line encapsulates the essence of my goal: to bring joy and light to those I encounter. Through humor and interaction, I aim to make a positive impact on people's lives, even if only for a moment.
Building Trust and Community
Believe it or not, building trust and community is crucial in this line of work. I make sure to engage with each person, smile, and wave, ensuring that they know they are not just another stop but a valuable part of my journey. I don't cherry-pick my interactions; I visit three solid locations and stick to them. Over time, I've developed a reputation, and people generally treat me with respect and even kindness.
Notable Encounters
One memorable encounter took place at a law school, where a sign reading "SHE HAD A BETTER LAWYER. TOO OLD TO RUN. TO PROUD TO LIE. TOO HONEST TO STEAL. I NEED A ROOM, A SMOKE, AND A DRINK" connected with passersby. At a 5-way stop, I had a man and woman who were fighting like cats and dogs. They saw my sign, started laughing, and eventually brought me two $20 bills as a token of their appreciation. This moment highlights the potential for transformation that can occur when unexpected connections are made.
Setting Boundaries and Standards
While sign selling can be challenging, it’s important to set boundaries and maintain a sense of self-worth. I only use sign selling to supplement my income, and I only earn what I believe I need. I am not greedy; my goal is to achieve a sense of comfort and stability. In a world that often feels chaotic, sign selling provides an opportunity to find small pockets of joy and connection. So, the next time you see me on the street, remember that I am there not just to ask for help, but to share a moment of laughter and positivity.
Feel free to share your thoughts on my experiences or let me know if you found this story meaningful. Every bit of support helps, and your kindness goes a long way in these difficult times. Thank you for considering my story and the impact you can have through small acts of kindness and understanding.