by Matt Brown, friend
Robby was a person who struggled with his mental health, substance use disorder and homelessness. But he was SO much more. Too often, we see someone on the street and make assumptions or, perhaps without even thinking, render judgements about them. About who they are, why they are where they are, and what they need to do.
But as we have learned, behind each face out here, there is a huge, hidden inner world, a unique beauty and a priceless human with a story like no one else’s.
If our minds and hearts are closed, we miss the incredible privilege it is to get to know them and earn their trust, so they feel safe enough to trust their stories with us. Instead, we work hard to stay curious. To truly see them, hear them, and practice radical acceptance, unconditional positive regard and love.
Robby was from a very close-knit family who loved him beyond measure, and had a huge circle of friends that he treasured. He loved sharks, took amazing photographs and was an incredibly talented artist. He was such a kind and humble soul, with a heart of gold and a gentle spirit.
He lost his life earlier this year, but we speak his name in our hearts each day, and keep the flame of his memory alive by treating each person we are privileged to meet just as Robby treated others. His presence was a blessing, his life a gift and his memory a true treasure.
May we all remember that behind every face we see on the streets is a unique soul with their own story- struggles, triumphs, sadness and joys, hopes and dreams, darkness and beautiful light.
We’ve included one of his favorite photographs above, together with his own words describing his daily struggles (taken from his Flickr account with permission of his family).