"Atlantic Ave" is a story of the homes and hearts of people who dwell on the streets of Savannah, GA. It's a tale of memories and bonds that make a new place feel like home. The concept of home is an idea that holds immense importance, and I sought to discover its significance in the lives of others. But as I delved deeper, I realized that the true essence of a home lies in the warmth and love that its people exude, the ones who embrace you with open arms and make you feel like you belong.
"Atlantic Ave" has been my journey of finding my sense of home within the streets of Savannah, GA. It's where I met Victor Berry and Nate Goldwire, who were once strangers but are now family. Their compassion, trust, and generosity have moved me deeply, and their presence has taught me more than I could have ever imagined.
Reflecting on my experience, I am reminded of the beauty of human connection and its power to transform our lives. "Atlantic Ave" is a testament to the fact that home is not just a place but a feeling of being seen and loved for who we are. And I am grateful for the gift of this realization, for it has given me fulfillment in life.
Nate Goldwire
After spending time with Victor Berry, I believed that Atlantic Ave might have come to a dead end until a dear friend of mine spoke of a man named Nate Goldwire. She painted a picture of Nate as someone truly one-of-a-kind, and as soon as I met him, I knew she was right. To me, Nate Goldwire is like my grandfather. Having been separated from my grandparents and unable to create new memories with them daily, I felt a deep kinship with Nate. He reminded me of my grandfather in many ways: a keen observer, a collector, and someone who refused to let age hold him back from doing what he loved.
During our first encounter, Nate spoke to me about his love for creating furniture and incorporating found objects into his designs, much like my grandfather. This was one of many conversations that brought tears to my eyes. Nate then shared with me his gallery, a collection of items he had found over the years on the streets. These included a dung beetle, a barber shop mirror, and a Gumby figure. His excitement was contagious as he spoke about each piece, and I could see how much these items meant to him. In that moment, we became like family, united by our love for reclaiming discarded items and giving them a new life.
Nate's love and care for his wife were also evident, and seeing the way he tended to her needs every day was a lesson in love and appreciation for each moment and all of the things that life brings our way. Nate's home on Atlantic Ave has become my safe space, where I am reminded to cherish the people and things that matter most.