This has always been one of my favorite photos of Lee Godie. I believe she was much like Mr. Johnson.
We used to have welcoming benches out in front of the gallery here in Waxahachie. They served a great purpose, but at some point had to be removed for a couple of reasons.
One we installed a window displayed that needed the full view without the visual distraction of the bench. The second reason was Mr. Johnson.
Mr. Johnson has lived on the streets of Waxahachie for many years. I believe he is schizophrenic and lives on the streets at his own terms and without medication by his own choice. He is a lovely man of character, kind, respects folks, walks slower than I have ever seen anyone standing upright, and has the conversation skills of the best beat poet. William Burroughs cut-up method has nothing on natural Mr. Johnson.
We have always loved talking with Mr. Johnson. He is interesting and confident to the core. So at some point, he began to live on one of our outdoor benches. We were happy to shelter Mr. Johnson and enjoyed bringing him food, drink, conversation, new toothbrush, etc. Until we realized the wooden bench he lived on was also where he smoked late unto the night listening to the BBC and some obscure soul pop radio station. There were signs that Mr. Johnson was letting the cigarette burn on the wooden bench. We had visions of the whole thing lighting up and taking Mr. Johnson and our building with it.
So, we had our benches removed and a new bench brought in to across the street in front of the vacant building where he could still be near and comfortable and not bring any great change to his environment.
One day we saw local police talking to Mr. Johnson. That seem to be the start of him resting other places but returning from time to time.
I talked to Mr. Johnson and he told of the police visit. He said they wanted him to leave and he said,” shit I own this town”.
I have no doubt about that. He would be a great local politician in my world. He knows this town better than most making it’s decisions and he has the character and confidence that shows of course he owns this town.
I saw him tonight in the rain and I asked him if I could give him a ride. “No, I’m close. I just got to go in the store and see if they want me to do anything about the chocolate I spilled.” Always thoughtful and ever independent Mr. Johnson who probably was walking slower than just about humanly possible to his next stop. He should be the Mayor, but I guess he already holds that position.