It is often argued that for many of us the true meaning of Christmas has been lost and it has become a superficial, materialistic holiday. 'A Sign of Hope' reminds us just how bleak this time of year can be for some people.
The video begins by asking folk on the streets of Dublin how they plan to spend Christmas this year. Many detail that it is a time for family and that "just getting together is the best gift" you can give.
The video then shows one homeless man speaking openly and honestly to the camera. He explains that he left home when he was only 16-years-old and has been on the streets for 8 years now.
The most poignant moment of the short clip is the young man explaining how he will spend Christmas day, returning to the RDS for a dinner and drinks.
"It's kind of the one time that you don't have to think about being homeless, you don't have to worry about paying for the food or paying for the drink, or finding somewhere warm..."
The young man is then asked how people treat him.
"I'm labelled as a junkie or a scumbag," he told the camera, "because I'm sitting here with a cup."
"I flash a smile whether they smile back or not, I'll always flash smile and wish them good morning or good afternoon."
His hopes for the future are simple. "Get housed, go back to do a course, get work and have a normal life like every single one of these."
This video is a huge reality check and puts peoples' circumstances into perspective. The sentiments behind this video are important, homelessness needs more attention.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNwvbUMzRmg
Video via YouTube/Ashleigh Breslin 
