A vagrant is defined as a wanderer who has no established residence or visible means of support. In T&T we are at present riding the high wave of automation and luxury. However, some people in our society scorn those who are less fortunate—the poor, the homeless and the destitute.

Lots of times you even see many people trying to help those who are living a life of vagrancy by giving them money; but at the same time the body language of these good Samaritans betrays the fact that they do not wish to make body contact with the vagrants. These poor people (the vagrants) sense this and make it easier by offering up a cup where you can place the coins or bank notes. The life of a vagrant appears to be totally dehumanising; but are they the less fortunate or are we?

Marguerite is no slave to automation and enjoys a morning run.

ANALYSING THE VAGRANT LIFESTYLE

Some of the leanest and best abdominals I have ever seen don’t belong to guys who frequent gyms, but rather belong to vagrants right here in T&T.

Let’s have a look at the vagrant lifestyle and see why he does not appear to have a fat problem like so many of our good citizens in T&T.

When last did you see a vagrant taking a taxi? Probably never; the same vagrant you saw an hour ago in Cocorite, is now finding his way down Frederick Street. Do you know how he got there? He got there by walking. He has no money to spend on a taxi and very few drivers will stop for a vagrant for fear that his other passengers will complain. The poor vagrant has no choice but to walk.

We on the other hand, are going to jump in our cars to go to the supermarket, even though the distance may be a quarter of a mile from our homes. Who is getting better exercise for the heart?

When last did you hear a vagrant sneeze or notice that he appeared to have a cold? Most of them probably never took antibiotics in the last 15 years and they probably have stronger immune systems than we do. They also have no fungal overgrowths caused by antibiotic abuse.

Have you ever seen a vagrant eating a five course meal at any of the top restaurants in T&T? He has to settle for the steak bones and vegetables that you don’t want. You took care of the artery clogging red meat, fries and calorie loaded desserts. He (the vagrant) also probably finished his meal feeling as if he could have had a bit more. You on the other hand, had to loosen your belt to facilitate your distended stomach which contained all that rich food.

When last did you see him drinking coffee or having a milk shake? All he drinks is water. Which is better for your body?

REMEMBERING OUR ANCESTORS

Vagrants in many ways act as a reminder of our ancestors who were also wanderers thousands of years ago. Life was hard then and they (our ancestors) did not have the luxury of cars, elevators, supermarkets etc. In those days, our ancestors had to run after their food, kill it and then carry it back to their caves. The hunt kept them fit and trim.

In modern times, we use cars, elevators and escalators for near-all mobility. We don’t have to hunt for food or slave on the land planting vegetables; there is always a fast food outlet just around the corner waiting to pollute your already fat infested body.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES

I am certainly not advocating that you give up all the things that you have worked hard for in order to provide a life of comfort for you and your family. However, I do believe that every so often we need to keep check of ourselves and ensure that we do not become addicted to automation or to an easy lifestyle which can make you soft physically.

Try the

following tips:

n Park your car about four or five blocks from your workplace and walk the distance.

n Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

n Carry your own bags from the supermarket instead of paying the clerk $5 to do the job.

n Leave the dining table feeling as if you could have had a bit more, rather than stuffing your face in to a near-nauseous state,

n Ensure that you get in at least 40 minutes of formal cardio (running, biking etc) at least four times per week.

The next time you see a vagrant, pat him on the back or shake his hand, give him something to eat and thank him for reminding you about your roots. Keep training.