The Collage Podcast: Episode 54 – Kirby

Host: Feed My Sheep
Release Date: November 27, 2024
Location: Temple, Texas
Guests: Kirby, Bobby

Produced by Feed My Sheep in Temple, TX, The Collage Podcast shares the diverse stories and experiences of individuals within the community, highlighting our shared humanity.

1. Introduction and Welcome

Timestamp: [00:00 - 01:15]

Jeff, the host, warmly welcomes listeners to Episode 54, introducing Kirby as today's guest alongside their friend Bobby. The episode is recorded at Feed My Sheep in Temple, Texas, setting a friendly and inviting tone for the conversation.

2. Early Life and Upbringing

Timestamp: [01:15 - 03:20]

Kirby shares his roots, highlighting his upbringing on a 500-acre ranch at Little River Academy. Raised by a professional steer roper father, Kirby developed skills in farming, ranching, and horse breaking.

Kirby [03:20]: "Born and raised... on a ranch. 500 acres. And my dad was a professional calf roper. Steer roper."

3. Athletic Pursuits and Education

Timestamp: [05:00 - 06:17]

During high school, Kirby excelled in football and track, achieving all-state honors as both a defensive and offensive lineman.

Kirby [05:00]: "Played football. Did you really? Yes, Football, track, all state."

4. Truck Driving Career

Timestamp: [06:17 - 09:35]

Straight out of high school, Kirby embarked on a 35-year career in truck driving, specializing in long-haul and heavy haul transportation. He obtained a Class A CDL after training at Abilene Truck Driving School and drove across the country, appreciating different landscapes and cultures.

Jeff [07:02]: "35 years you drove. Enjoyed it, I'm guessing."

Kirby [07:32]: "The most parts of Illinois... nice and green. Very nice country farms."

5. Family Tragedies and Homelessness

Timestamp: [12:12 - 13:00]

Kirby's life took a tragic turn with the passing of two brothers and both parents between 1997 and 1998. These losses, coupled with familial disagreements, led to his current state of homelessness, despite having a sister and brother still alive.

Kirby [12:24]: "Both parents passed around 97 and 98. And then two of my brothers have passed."

6. The Car Accident and Its Aftermath

Timestamp: [13:00 - 19:00]

Three years prior, Kirby was involved in a severe car accident in Dallas, Texas, which left him injured and struggling to recover. Subsequently, he became homeless, relying on the support of Feed My Sheep and facing challenges with insurance companies and legal battles.

Kirby [15:04]: "An accident in Dallas... hit me from behind in my car while driving for Uber."

Jeff [16:40]: "35 years without an accident. And did you home base out of here?"

7. Life on the Streets: Struggles and Survival

Timestamp: [19:00 - 36:20]

Kirby delves into the harsh realities of homelessness, including exposure to extreme weather, vulnerability to violence, and societal stigmatization. He discusses the emotional and physical toll of living without stable housing and the constant fear for personal safety.

Kirby [27:24]: "It's so tough that you got to watch your life."

Jeff [28:00]: "You get 24 days in jail, and that costs..."

8. Community Support and Personal Resilience

Timestamp: [36:20 - 54:13]

Despite his hardships, Kirby emphasizes the importance of community support systems like Feed My Sheep and programs like MHMR, which provide mental health assistance and shelter. He reflects on the stigma faced by the homeless and advocates for compassion and understanding.

Kirby [43:26]: "They talk to you and try to help you get right back on track."

Jeff [53:10]: "You matter, because the truth is, God said it."

9. Personal Reflections and Hope for the Future

Timestamp: [54:12 - End]

In the concluding segments, Jeff and Kirby discuss the significance of recognizing individual worth and the collective responsibility to support one another. Kirby shares his desire to reunite with his family and his hope for a better future, underscoring the podcast's message of shared humanity and resilience.

Jeff [53:50]: "You enact that truth... you matter, because the truth is, God said it."

Kirby [45:35]: "Great grandfather."

Jeff [53:58]: "You matter, because the truth is, God said it."

Key Takeaways

• Resilience in Adversity: Kirby's story is a testament to enduring personal tragedy and the struggle to regain stability after catastrophic loss.

• The Harsh Realities of Homelessness: The episode sheds light on the daily dangers and societal challenges faced by individuals without stable housing.

• Community Support is Crucial: Initiatives like Feed My Sheep play a vital role in providing shelter, support, and hope to those in need.

• The Importance of Compassion: The conversation emphasizes understanding and kindness towards the homeless, breaking down stereotypes and fostering a sense of community.

Notable Quotes

• On Overcoming Hardships:

  Jeff [25:35]: "And so I got a finish line, I got across. And I'm still in the race."

• On Personal Worth:

  Jeff [53:58]: "You matter, because the truth is, God said it."

• On Community and Support:

  Kirby [43:26]: "They talk to you and try to help you get right back on track."

Conclusion

Episode 54 of The Collage Podcast offers an intimate look into Kirby’s life, illuminating the struggles and resilience of someone facing homelessness due to unforeseen tragedies. Through heartfelt dialogue and shared experiences, the episode underscores the importance of community support, personal strength, and unwavering hope. Kirby's journey serves as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity and the impact of compassion in overcoming life's most challenging moments.

For more stories and to support initiatives like Feed My Sheep, visit redcordmedia.org.