I do not love cats. They smell, hiss, scratch and I am allergic to them.

The City of Vancouver has recently begun to give out tickets to people sleeping in a park a couple blocks away from my house. The police will come in early in the morning, tear up tents, throw away my friends and neighbours belongings and give 'em a $75 ticket, they know will not be paid. Some speculate the idea behind this is so that come the Olympics, all those with accumulated tickets will then be issued a warrant for their arrest and will "conveniently" get arrested and serve time during the Olympics.

A few of us have decided that this is not an okay idea and some have gone to be in the park with those who are there and offer themselves to be ticketed also. Then we are going to put all our accumulated tickets together and drop them off at City Hall and not pay. I think the cops have been by once, didn't ticket anyone, and haven't been back since the first day.

See, in this park there is a big sign that says "Homelessness is NOT a Crime". There is a couch, and it is set up just like a living room. There is even someones pet cat, that walks around (without a leash, in case you were wondering), just like someones home - I don't even mind this cat, it kinda gives an at home feeling.

The other night, a friend and I were walking by and spent a bit of time hanging out with our neighbours. It was late, and it was set up with some candle lights, and it was beautiful. There were some of the most beautiful prayers spoken, and one of the better displays of 'every tribe and nation' Ive seen lately.

I don't really know why the City would want to ticket us and throw us in jail. On this particular night, this park was possibly the safest, calmest and most peaceful places in the DTES.

If you don't see some pictures of this up in the next day or so, remind me to go for a walk, take a picture and get it up here.

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How is Nicole?

Great!
I've had a pretty swell week. BTI is in session and it is always a blessing to have some Warriors come in. It gets us all pumped and fired up. We put on our best face and show up to things we may have been slacking in. Being involved with BTI the bit I have been has been uplifting, and a good reminder why I am here.

The Lord is teaching me about being obedient to Him. I have been tested, and have caught even myself off guard when I passed. It is becoming a natural thing to do as well. So, my exhortation of the day, if you will, is be obedient. It becomes natural, and you just get really blessed up to, while blessing the Lord and others.

BTI concludes tonight, with an all night of prayer. If you are in the area, seriously come out tonight. Third floor of the Crosswalk, at Abbott and Hastings. 10pm-6am.

We are also finalising some things for The War College next year. It's going to be a great year. A couple spots are left - apply today at www.thewarcollege.com.

Peace!