Student and teacher put spotlight on homeless

It's standard practice for many Christians to participate in Lent the weeks leading up to Easter. It's a time to reflect, abstain from a regular pleasure and focus on Jesus.

Fasting is usually associated with food but can also apply to things like TV, social media or other essential items or experiences.

Recently a Chaffee High School student and instructor did something similar yet different. It wasn't necessarily about Lent, but there was a faith component as the experience was conducted for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

The student, Bailey Wiseman, and history teacher Travis Calkins spent days like homeless individuals.

Wiseman only showered once during the week, which was before a church function. She ate a peanut-butter sandwich for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Wiseman, a freshman at Chaffee High School, wore the same blue sweatshirt and gray sweat pants every day.

Though they lived in their own homes, the experience included no TV, limited Internet access and no cellphone. Wiseman slept on the floor with only one blanket.

The experience, though not exactly what a homeless person would face, was similar and gave both student and educator a better idea of what some people deal with daily.

"I wanted to change my own thoughts about how well off I am," Wiseman said, adding it made her desire for luxury items less important.

As part of the experience the freshman carried a collection can for donations that would go to the local food bank.

This is appropriate especially during the Easter season that we reflect and give thanks to God for our blessings. Likewise, it's important to tangibly show the love of Christ to those who lack basic things. Whether it's a food bank, the Salvation Army or another charity, we can all find ways to help our neighbors.

It's commendable that the young student and teacher took on this experiment and shined a light on the issue of homelessness. Thank you to both for making us all think about the issue more.