It has been challenging to write a piece that deals with homelessness. The issue is emotional, complex, and can be approached from so many different perspectives.  The range of perspectives, it seems, is almost unbounded because of the number of thoughts and questions this tragedy raises about our society, our neighbors, our families, and each listener's place of relative privilege.

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Unsheltered is the term used to describe those who dwell in spaces not designated for human habitation.  This piece, by the same name, attempts to address this crack in our society by telling the story of once person: Cynthia English.  Ms. English, who asked that her name be shared, courageously tells about the experience on the streets of New York City.  Through her individual struggle, and the four movements of this work, we hear about the fractures in our healthcare, housing, and familial institutions.  Further, we celebrate a woman who endured much, and who is able to offer guidance as we seek ways to make a practical, personal difference in the midst of a seemingly entrenched crisis.

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I am thankful to Brad Edwards, as he both thought of the idea for the piece and worked so hard to line up funding for its completion.  I am also thankful to the other members of the consortium who helped fund the work, and will certainly do a great service to Ms. English's story as they perform it with excellence.  

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And finally, the piece is dedicated to Cynthia, whose willingness to be both vulnerable and thoughtful opens a view in the lives of so many who seem lost, along with a first step toward each of us working to find them.

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