This past Sunday morning, I woke up with one place and one destination on my mind: Downtown Los Angeles. No, I wasn’t headed to The Staples Center to check out The Lakers or The Clippers. I was on a different mission, a mission that would land me in a place that many refer to as one of America’s most depressed streets.

Skid Row.

What is Skid Row, you ask? It’s an area that contains one of the largest stable populations of homeless people in The United States. “On the skid” is a generic term for a place where people with no money and nothing to do gather.

For people who have never been to Skid Row before, the first visit could be very shocking, as it was for me. Seeing people, my people, in such a state of poverty was a true eye opener for me. There are tents that line the street as far as the eyes can see, this is why its nickname is “tent city”.

This was the second time my friend Lisa invited me to be a part of this charity and I was honoured to accept. I was more comfortable this time and I knew what to expect.

As we were handing out blankets and food to the homeless, an overwhelming sense of gratitude filled my heart. We take so much for granted when we’ve reached a certain level of success. It is so important to give back. It’s the little things that make all the difference in the world.

We are all dealt a different hand of cards in life and I want to play mine right, by making a difference, showing compassion and respecting my fellow man.

So if you ever find yourself in Los Angeles, take some time to visit Skid Row. It will change your perspective on life and what you complain about. It did for me. It’s amazing what a smile, a sandwich or just a simple word of encouragement can do for these homeless people, some who have given up hope.

I’m not writing this for a pat on the back, I’m writing this to inspire others to get up, get out and become the difference you want to see in the world. Thank you.

#mmlove