Diversity? Not Really. Diversity would be filming some people who don't have a tragic story. How about showing some good productive representations. Then it would be diverse.
It made me cry when he ssaid he slept under a bridge to avoid being disturbed, robbed or beaten. I've said this before, I sometimes complain about tiny problems in my 1st world life, but when I see people in this predicament it breaks my heart.
this takes place in america which is widely associated with the first world, an absolute shame that people have to live like this in the richest country
@@btnhl no its because theres astigma around homeless people and they often get kicked out of places simply for being homeless, id imagine that makes it hard to get a job, addicts are also victims as they need rehab, the only people responsible for there own actions are violent or thievious homeless people as they perpetuate the stigma that the homeless are lazy criminals, i really do think that you oversimplified any point you tried to make
Imagine finding peace sleeping under a bridge where he isn't robbed or beaten to live is that kind fear is beyond my comprehension. I too give thanks for my blessing that i'm safe in my tiny abode. He lives in the USA and it's suppose to be a first world nation.
I can't tell you how depressed I was . I thought my life sucked. I came across your videos and your work and I feel like a selfish brat. I'm saddened by the ruff hard lives of others. Shocking lives. God bless the humble
Depression is something people of all walks of life encounter. Just because u have better circumstances than others doesn't mean that your Depression isn't real. Look at some of the wealthiest people - Robin Williams, Anthony Bourdain, etc. You deserve help the same as someone with less or more means than you. Best wishes from upstate NY!!
Your feelings and pain matter. Keep keeping on and I hope you find moments of bliss as you go along. This life ain't easy but it has snippets of joy. Embrace them when you can.
I feel the emotion expressed in that moment growing more prevalent with each passing day. This is a statement you can declare with such solemn certainty as he did, once you've reconciled yourself with the fact that you've got nothing left to live for, that the best of you lies entirely in the past, so distant that it hardly seems like your own memory anymore. He didn't say it because he's tough...he said it because there's nothing that you can do to him.
@@h4ckh3lp I agree 100% I know he wasn’t trying to say how tough he is, I was just making a statement. This rollercoaster we call life is a crazy ride and I can tell he’s had his fair share of ups and downs. I wish him nothing but the best and I hope he’s able to enjoy the last chapter of his life.
yeah me too. but it's the kind of dude that i'd really not be astonished to see a news that he died. he seems close to death. in some societies (like arabic for example), theses kind of guys doesn't exist. they respect olders and feed them/host them by culture freely whenever they want. it's actually what is sad to me is that this guy is a product of our society. sad to see. he really not look like someone who would had something with drug or being a really bad guy. so our society shouldn't produce a guy like him. i really think shame is on us.
I didn't think I'd ever find someone in exactly the same situation as myself. I'm 73, and live in the deep woods on my own but l do have a phone and a pension. So I'm doin well. Good luck brother, sleep dream free.
I bet living a simple natural woodsy life is so much better than the rest of us. You sound grateful. You also sound like a compassionate person and a gentleman. I'm only 60 but now I find stories about older folks lives so comforting. I sure hope some miracle will save him. He deserves it so much. And much abundance and goodness and good health to you Jim. Your message was very sweet and quite unique. Not many your age on this channel. May you be happy. May you be free from suffering. May you be at peace. 💜
I moved from L.A. to Tennessee and compared to California people are actually polite, humble, hardworking, and would give you the shirt of their back. I'm gonna grow old and die in Tennessee.
I moved to TN as well after ft Lauderdale went to hell ; you are right the people up here are just phenomenal! I love it l am on top of a mountain in the smokies - had a baby bear right below my back deck the other day.
WV born and raised. There are many like him that still exist here. They're a wealth of knowledge, and they are tough as they come. The last of the hill people. 🙏
I have a great respect for this man. His silence between questions is deafening, yet extremely simple. I miss people whom don't feel the need to fill silence with idle chit-chat. His internal strengths are ever so admirable. Brought up in a different time and place: seemingly making his way through the remainder of his life. With the great losses he's experienced, he did not get lost in the bottle or drugs. Thank you for allowing him space for sharing his story. 🙏💙♾️🌬
I’m from Kentucky and I love people like this. True honest people. We all go through hard times. If I were rich I would buy him a home and pay his debt. His kids need to love and take care of him. Peace Billy.
I'd like to be his neighbor and to see him laugh and have abundance in the last years of his life. These people comfort me like Grandparents. So calming. God bless Billie.
His fixed stare haunts me.. he looks like one of those movie characters you assume to be evil at first, but then you realize he’s seen way more than he can cope with… If he is a good guy, may God bless him. ❤️
If you're a good person, may God Bless You too. you look like one of those movie characters you assume to be a stupid cow at first, but then you realize you have seen nothing in this world, and your naivity or is it dumb fxckery shines bright like a diamond.
One of the all time best interviews ever! My family is from Kentucky and came up a hard life. Good people, taught me a lot. I realize that now that I'm sixty three.
Great content as usual, Mark. Just yesterday I thought about how neat it might be to interview a court judge. I bet it'd be quite insightful if you ever get the opportunity. Finding this channel has helped me consider so many things I would never have in the past. You're doing amazing work.
He hit the nail on the head concerning (most) kids nowadays. It's incredible how his children turned out. All of them in honorable positions in life. Funny how life works out.
So do I ! I am from Scottish Highlands and I know many people from Appalachians orig in Nate from Scotland, Ireland and the I see so much of the old ways, in the be Appalachian people !
I would tend to agree with you, but I've recently found that people can be stubborn. My MIL passed away about a month ago, and my FIL refuses to leave his home. The conditions they were living in were awful, and we did our best to get in there and clean up for them. The day she passed, we tried to talk my FIL into coming home with us for the night, but he refused. He can barely see or hear and is only allowed to drive during daylight hours, and we worry about him being by himself. Sometimes people just want to live the way they want to live.
I'd be proud to have him as my neighbor. I could relate to this gentleman, since I am fed up with people too overall and don't trust many. He is hurt beyond measure and disgusted with life in general, can anyone blame him??Since he was a single dad, his successful offspring should help him file for bankruptcy to give him a fresh start and to get a roof over his head. He has a wealth of wisdom and experience. His heart and soul is pure. Most of all he his real and a good man. 👍
He's an interesting gentleman. I have a lot of respect for him. Not arrogant, but proud. Knowing that there is always two sides to every story, I wonder what story his children would tell.
Cherish what we have, no matter how little or how much. Prayers to you sir, in 19 minutes you have reminded us to appreciate what we have. I sat back in my chair when he said I respected my father for teaching us and quoted, "Honor Thy Mother and Father." May peace come to you in Gods way.
if you read this Billie hang in there bro. we love you and appreciate you. not everyone is out to get you and sometimes life just doesn't grant everyone the same luck.
To have been beaten down by life the way this man is. Is heartbreaking. Not once did he smile. Please Mark, keep track of this man. I was shocked about his phone bill!!! I have my own issues with tissues but this gives a person perspective. I wish I had money to give to him. I know others will help. GOD bless you for talking to these poor people on the fringes of society. ♥️
Bless his heart. I like this man and his strength of character. He knows he has made mistakes and admits it. I hope he gets the help he needs and overcomes his current circumstances.
💟 I love the Appalachian Mountain people and their interview’s. I have family that came from there. In the late 1800’s they drove their team of mules all the way from Virginia and relocate in the middle of Idaho country, what a fascinating culture. Billy, I really enjoyed your story, thanks for sharing. 🥰
This man is impressive. He doesn’t speak with as much of an accent as he may believe. He has a soft, intelligent sounding Southern accent and I hope he can find some comfort. If my father slept under a bridge, I would be ashamed of myself. His five children can come together and help him. One is a lawyer? She could help him immensely.
I grew up in the NE Alabama hills and it was tough. You worked, went to school and came back and worked. Summertime was ALL work. You looked forward to football season when you could do that instead of working the fields. It has changed quite a bit and I hated it but there is a part that misses it.
I am wondering why he didn’t live with any of them until he can get on his feet. I am sure there is more to the story, but I would not want my dad living on the street.
This man has been needing to have this conversation for a long time. It's likely the first true conversation he's had in years. I can feel the pain in his voice. He makes no excuses for life's issues, just acknowledges his own faults and keeps it moving. God bless him. I hope and pray he finds peace in this life.
19 minutes wasnt even close to enough. this man could use hours to talk it out. and the world we live in now would be open to help him. hope we catch up with him down the road
He is indeed in need of compassion and understanding: this is basic human decency and he seems like a decent fellow. But I don't see how sky fairies are going to help him.
@@cyberpleb2472 If there is no God (sky fairies as you say) what is the point of decency? Life is meaningless, decency is meaningless, in fact, counter intuitive, to a godless human. Only God makes life worthy of compassion. Otherwise, humans should just kill and take as much as they can in a short meaningless existence. Aren't you the one who needs compassion...?
I'm from Appalachia myself (although from an urban area) and I've known loads of people like this. He's like a living artifact. If you dragged a mountain man from 1840 into the present day to interview - this is exactly what you'd get.
I love the fact that Mark is willing to leave those moments of silence between questions. You can see the reflection that goes along with answering his questions.
I got legitimately pissed off when I heard that he owes Verizon almost $10,000. I don't see how that could happen without the predatory practices these telcos use. And please, tell me what Verizon could have possibly provided this man that's worth $10,000. If he wasn't paying bills for years, why was the service still going? To owe that much, Verizon preyed on this man like they do so many. AT&T is especially bad about this too. They love to prey on the young and the elderly. Easy money for them. There is no way this man should be 10k in debt to Verizon. That sort of thing should never happen. That is crooked business. This man's story is interesting, as is his character. I don't mean to dismiss the rest of the interview or the rest of this man's life. I just cannot stand that people are victimized so much by corporations these days.
I wonder if he could just declare bankruptcy and start over. It does seem pretty shady that he owes that much to Verizon. He isn’t a saint (who is?) but he certainly could use some financial advise so he can get back on his feet. At least take that burden off of him.
I'd be interested in knowing why his kids haven't stepped up to take care of him. I couldn't imagine my father living under a bridge. He's been gone 9 years and I'd do anything for one minute with him. I pray they reconnect. The pain in his voice is hard to hear.
i also like the appalachian interviews. They go straigh to the point. no waste of words. The alcoholism, drug addiction and lack of jobs is a cancer in this comunity.
It’s not easy to open up about such difficult life situations like this. His story is truly humbling and reminds me to count my blessings. I’m praying for him 🙏🏽
He said "i been lonely, since 2013" he mustve really loved that woman😭 hope he gets what he deserves- a happy, comfortable life and home to live out the rest of his days♡
Please set up a Go Fund Me page for this gentleman. There's so much one could say about Billie. He has a magnificent face. I would love to see a painting of him. Somehow, he has managed to capture my heart with his honesty and dignified presence. I wish you all the best, Billie. You deserve nothing less.
He reminds me of Robert E Lee in the movies. but I’m not sure he’s being honest. If he has 5 kids with good jobs. Why is he homeless under a bridge? I think he needs help for sure. I feel so bad for him.
I thought that was particularly pertinent myself, the world is crying out for natural medicines, to capture this information from Billie would be blessing to the world. An amazing man, not much older than myself. Im also of no fixed abode, yet very happy about my future I have freedom just like Billie.
@@bobsaul4568just responding to the lady saying somebody needs to help this dude financially he says he worked so hard as a kid figured that would have instilled some type of work ethic homeless people here is Charleston wv is crazy they get shipped in here by the bus loads because they have so many programs n food pantrys n churches n shelters here to help there at every intersection begging for change he sleeps under the bridge so nobody will bother him let me tell you it ain't that bad here I know life's hard n some people are dealt a bad hand from the start but what is this guy doing to make his life better can't just hang under the bridge all day n wait for somebody to help you
at this point he should have the right to some kind of pension and a pension is not charity. at a certain age almost nobody can live with just working OR living in the street and find food. you get old and that's life. i think he kind of got lost in this process. just accept you are old and need a little help. not accepting that is to me being actually insane.
He sound like a man who's pride has been broken and depression has taken him . I'd hazard a guess that it's this that might stop him from allowing his children to help him. You can tell he is a man who had a lot of pride and for men like this to accept charity and not being able pull their own weight can one of hardest thing they will ever have to overcome. Help can literally surround some of us but until we open our hearts, ignore our heads and accept it . Nothing will surely change.
He talks like a lot of people who've had a hard life. I'd say that he's depressed but probably doesn't even realize it. I definitely don't agree that depression has "taken him". I reckon he'd be a hard man to "take". All of the older generation in my family, both sides, talk like he does. I also wouldn't say his prides been broken at all. People from that generation and area were taught that pride goes before the fall. Also, just personal opinion here, but pride probably doesn't get you anywhere when you're homeless or in dire straights. Really I wish there were more people like him, straight talking, honest, no nonsense, doesn't volunteer extra information.
They don’t make people like this anymore. This man has made a lot of mistakes and is hurting. Yet, not one excuse or point of the finger to place blame. He owns everything he’s done and every decision he’s made. God bless you Sir and thank you for this interview.
Don't get caught up in the whole "This new generation isn't this or that" nonsense. His isn't first nor the last generation that knows how to own their mistakes. ruclips.net/video/Ma-XJc_CqPI/видео.html
Props to Mark for getting this man to open up. People don’t understand how difficult it is to receive closed ended answers when you’re asking open ended questions. It’s not easy to stay patient
Well, Mark's been thru a lot, he knows how to deal with it. It was difficult for us too, to listen. Especially with all his inner pain, that was not put into words, but u could feel it 💔
@@Needawholepailofwater a lot of people just want a chance to be truthful. Some people would Probly do it for free. But hey. Money helps a lot of things.
This gentleman is the most direct and sure footed person I’ve seen in a long time. The way he answers the questions with the most direct response is a sure sign of self awareness. He stops immediately after most of his answers due to him being very sure that is all that is needed. Todays world and it’s psych tests may claim him to have mental instability but be assured this man is completely competent and well versed in how to deal with the world around him in his own way.
I feel the same. He is rock solid. I would NOT want him to mix with allopathic medicine at all. They'd have a field day. Best to stay away and remain country pure. IMO. the priority here is getting him back under a roof.
How do you find a virgin in West Virginia? Find one who can run faster than her brothers. During childhood, I lived in his area. I barely have one good memory. There were a lot of people who spoke and acted like him. My take on him and the people like him is the opposite of yours. They lacked self-awareness. They kept their answers short and closed because they were hiding something. How does Sùmelly Sock know this? Smelly Sock did not walk in their shoes. I went through similar experiences. I had , i was faced with similar forks in the road, similar sets of choices. My background was similar. I was becoming taciturn and secretive just like him and the others. It was common to lose ones virginity by age 11. How? To ones parents or siblings. If you were lucky, to your cousin. Similar bad things had happened to me, and i was on the same road of bad choices as them. I was becoming like them. Had I not left the area, that 3rd world cess pit of the USA clalled Apalachia, I have no doubt I would have turned out like him. They were cruel, mean(spirited, hateful people. They wre violent. They were drunks. A google search of my former classmates, the children of such people and who would grow up to become like that, shows around half to be on sexual predator watch lists and prison histories for other crimes. Sure, they were tough, but they destroyed evertying they touched.
Ya this man directness and integrity is so admirable. Even though his life ended under a bridge, his life and him as a person is remarkable. Not a perfect person, lots of flaws, but some strong personality traits that are a model for the rest of us
![American Hollow (1999) [Full Movie]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/CDAFy3ASNOo/mqdefault.jpg)
A serious man with depth and integrity.
It's a shame how such a person can end up under a bridge.
Especially with five successful children. Boggles the mind.
this is what happens to good people.
Society doesn’t care about men
Anyone!…even you….can end up homeless.
It would be interesting to hear from his family. Sounds to me like a man who has the potential to flip quite easily.
I love the diversity of the people you interview and your style is remarkable
yep harsh life styles
I agree. Its one of the things that keep this channel interesting.
So true
1000% agree
Diversity? Not Really. Diversity would be filming some people who don't have a tragic story. How about showing some good productive representations. Then it would be diverse.
This man speaks his heart without being hateful or mean. He says what he thinks about things without hurting others.
I live in Charleston. Do you know the area Billie stays? I’d like to try to help him out any way I can. He seems like a good man.
This one...something about it. This man's stoicism, taking accountability and plain honest. This was a rare gem.
It made me cry when he ssaid he slept under a bridge to avoid being disturbed, robbed or beaten. I've said this before, I sometimes complain about tiny problems in my 1st world life, but when I see people in this predicament it breaks my heart.
Here here.
Sometimes though I wish I could have the mental state these guys have an not live the rat race life
Couldn’t agree more. It’s so humbling
this takes place in america which is widely associated with the first world, an absolute shame that people have to live like this in the richest country
@@btnhl no its because theres astigma around homeless people and they often get kicked out of places simply for being homeless, id imagine that makes it hard to get a job, addicts are also victims as they need rehab, the only people responsible for there own actions are violent or thievious homeless people as they perpetuate the stigma that the homeless are lazy criminals, i really do think that you oversimplified any point you tried to make
Imagine finding peace sleeping under a bridge where he isn't robbed or beaten to live is that kind fear is beyond my comprehension. I too give thanks for my blessing that i'm safe in my tiny abode. He lives in the USA and it's suppose to be a first world nation.
I can't tell you how depressed I was . I thought my life sucked.
I came across your videos and your work and I feel like a selfish brat. I'm saddened by the ruff hard lives of others.
Shocking lives. God bless the humble
God bless you Eleanore.
Watching this channel for two years now. I've never been less judgemental in my life. It's changed me.
Depression is something people of all walks of life encounter. Just because u have better circumstances than others doesn't mean that your Depression isn't real. Look at some of the wealthiest people - Robin Williams, Anthony Bourdain, etc. You deserve help the same as someone with less or more means than you. Best wishes from upstate NY!!
Your feelings and pain matter. Keep keeping on and I hope you find moments of bliss as you go along. This life ain't easy but it has snippets of joy. Embrace them when you can.
@@kimsdreamjewelry931 Great advice. Best wishes from upstate NY!!
“I don’t fear nothin” I 100% believe him when he says that. He’s a tough ol man I’m sure he can hold his own.
I feel the emotion expressed in that moment growing more prevalent with each passing day. This is a statement you can declare with such solemn certainty as he did, once you've reconciled yourself with the fact that you've got nothing left to live for, that the best of you lies entirely in the past, so distant that it hardly seems like your own memory anymore. He didn't say it because he's tough...he said it because there's nothing that you can do to him.
@@h4ckh3lp I agree 100% I know he wasn’t trying to say how tough he is, I was just making a statement. This rollercoaster we call life is a crazy ride and I can tell he’s had his fair share of ups and downs. I wish him nothing but the best and I hope he’s able to enjoy the last chapter of his life.
Heartbreaking. This man still has things to offer this world. I hope he gets some help while he is still with us.
I agree. I feel sad for him. I wish he could move into one of his daughters homes.
yeah me too. but it's the kind of dude that i'd really not be astonished to see a news that he died. he seems close to death. in some societies (like arabic for example), theses kind of guys doesn't exist. they respect olders and feed them/host them by culture freely whenever they want.
it's actually what is sad to me is that this guy is a product of our society. sad to see. he really not look like someone who would had something with drug or being a really bad guy. so our society shouldn't produce a guy like him. i really think shame is on us.
I didn't think I'd ever find someone in exactly the same situation as myself.
I'm 73, and live in the deep woods on my own but l do have a phone and a pension.
So I'm doin well.
Good luck brother, sleep dream free.
That's really cool. If I had a pension or steady income I would live in the deep woods as well. Nothing but love and respect for you brother
Kool! You have the right idea. Our world is in a mess! You are free from all the sickness and corruption! Peace be with you child of GOD! AMEN
I bet living a simple natural woodsy life is so much better than the rest of us. You sound grateful. You also sound like a compassionate person and a gentleman. I'm only 60 but now I find stories about older folks lives so comforting. I sure hope some miracle will save him. He deserves it so much. And much abundance and goodness and good health to you Jim. Your message was very sweet and quite unique. Not many your age on this channel. May you be happy. May you be free from suffering. May you be at peace. 💜
I moved from L.A. to Tennessee and compared to California people are actually polite, humble, hardworking, and would give you the shirt of their back. I'm gonna grow old and die in Tennessee.
Yes Tennessee has the southern hospitality
I moved to TN as well after ft Lauderdale went to hell ; you are right the people up here are just phenomenal! I love it l am on top of a mountain in the smokies - had a baby bear right below my back deck the other day.
@@stephaniepanis8669 cocke county here, same deal with families of bears!
That’s fine as long as you don’t start voting for the “Californication” of Tennessee
You wouldn't have loved certain parts in the 80s trust me.
WV born and raised. There are many like him that still exist here. They're a wealth of knowledge, and they are tough as they come. The last of the hill people. 🙏
I have a great respect for this man. His silence between questions is deafening, yet extremely simple. I miss people whom don't feel the need to fill silence with idle chit-chat.
His internal strengths are ever so admirable. Brought up in a different time and place: seemingly making his way through the remainder of his life.
With the great losses he's experienced, he did not get lost in the bottle or drugs.
Thank you for allowing him space for sharing his story. 🙏💙♾️🌬
This man lost his wife and never dealt with that. He lost his girlfriend and never dealt with that.
I wish I knew what that meant. “Never dealt with it”
I would love to hear more about this man's life. There is so much more to him than we are seeing.
5 minutes into this video I wished I could reach out and give this guy a huge tight hug.
He has a lovely voice. I can’t speak for the rest of him but his voice is beautiful.
I agree so much!
I’m from Kentucky and I love people like this. True honest people. We all go through hard times. If I were rich I would buy him a home and pay his debt. His kids need to love and take care of him. Peace Billy.
I'd like to be his neighbor and to see him laugh and have abundance in the last years of his life. These people comfort me like Grandparents. So calming. God bless Billie.
I think you'd have a hard time getting him to accept it
His fixed stare haunts me..
he looks like one of those movie characters you assume to be evil at first, but then you realize he’s seen way more than he can cope with…
If he is a good guy, may God bless him. ❤️
Movies have done well have done well to give people with that look and drawl a villainous aura to them ....
Like an old Civil War General…
If he is a good guy, may God bless him. ????
IF NOT ???
If you're a good person, may God Bless You too. you look like one of those movie characters you assume to be a stupid cow at first, but then you realize you have seen nothing in this world, and your naivity or is it dumb fxckery shines bright like a diamond.
@Insert name here: that's exactly what I was thinking
best interview I have ever seen of a man that means what he says and says what he means - a real man - all broken inside. Powerfully sad
This is such a story beyond the lens. Mark u r a master with this shot. Such a master piece 😉☺️
One of the all time best interviews ever! My family is from Kentucky and came up a hard life. Good people, taught me a lot. I realize that now that I'm sixty three.
Great content as usual, Mark. Just yesterday I thought about how neat it might be to interview a court judge. I bet it'd be quite insightful if you ever get the opportunity. Finding this channel has helped me consider so many things I would never have in the past. You're doing amazing work.
He has interviewed a judge before. Also a warden/executioner.
Thats one of the best portraits ive seen on this channel, maybe even ever.
this is true pain, y’all cry over a heartbreak, this man walks with pride. nice hearing you old timer, i appreciate heating your story.
Am I the only one wondering why he owes $10,000 to Verizon? He must have went over his data limit.
He hit the nail on the head concerning (most) kids nowadays. It's incredible how his children turned out. All of them in honorable positions in life. Funny how life works out.
My heart completely broke when he was asked about the best years of his life .
Much Respect to Billie and his Family Loved this interview
Mark said that the Appalachian people are the happiest he’s ever met. This guy must have been one of the unhappiest he’s ever interviewed.
I LOVE the Appalachian videos so much
So do I ! I am from Scottish Highlands and I know many people from Appalachians orig in Nate from Scotland, Ireland and the I see so much of the old ways, in the be Appalachian people !
this gentleman is the best dressed person I have seen in a long time. Love your photography. You are a true artist.
We all have a story to tell he blames no one for his hardships, respects to you Sir.
Have you considered Kensington st. In philly? Same stories as skid except I don't think the same money is there to help them.
^^
Excellent suggestion
@Sorum & Sons FF & Painting what's your point? Is philly less relevant because there are fewer homeless?
Those videos of kennsington are heartbreaking, especially all the young people. May God bless them all.
@Sorum & Sons FF & Painting It can still be nice to highlight different places.
This portrait is absolutely beautiful. You are a very talented man.
One of the best interviews I've seen on this channel.
i would not let my dad live under a bridge if i had the money like his kids do
I would tend to agree with you, but I've recently found that people can be stubborn. My MIL passed away about a month ago, and my FIL refuses to leave his home. The conditions they were living in were awful, and we did our best to get in there and clean up for them. The day she passed, we tried to talk my FIL into coming home with us for the night, but he refused. He can barely see or hear and is only allowed to drive during daylight hours, and we worry about him being by himself. Sometimes people just want to live the way they want to live.
SO MUCH RESPECT FOR THIS MAN. 💪🏾
I’m from the same County in West Virginia. Man, they could make a movie or write a book about this man’s life. I can relate to kanawha county
I'd be proud to have him as my neighbor. I could relate to this gentleman, since I am fed up with people too overall and don't trust many. He is hurt beyond measure and disgusted with life in general, can anyone blame him??Since he was a single dad, his successful offspring should help him file for bankruptcy to give him a fresh start and to get a roof over his head. He has a wealth of wisdom and experience. His heart and soul is pure. Most of all he his real and a good man. 👍
Exactly, his children need to help him file bankruptcy and get rid of these stupid debts... lessening his 'load' so he can live again !
He's an interesting gentleman. I have a lot of respect for him. Not arrogant, but proud. Knowing that there is always two sides to every story, I wonder what story his children would tell.
Cherish what we have, no matter how little or how much. Prayers to you sir, in 19 minutes you have reminded us to appreciate what we have. I sat back in my chair when he said I respected my father for teaching us and quoted, "Honor Thy Mother and Father." May peace come to you in Gods way.
THIS MAN IS AMAZING I WISH HIM ALL THE BEST
I love those black & white pictures when they stand up. I'd love to buy a book with all his photos.
This guy reminds me of where I come from...I grew up on a small farm just off the appalachian trail myself, seems so far away now
What a great story. Billy wish you'd come out of the rain, accept help and let people love on you. You are worthy.
12:57 I think I heard his stomach growling. So sad what him and his family went through😞
Good man! We are the same age and I raised my daughter with tough love. She’s a kind and hardworking young woman.
Appalachia will always be home. Hope to see this man around somewhere.
Last of a dying breed, kind of men who built this country and we NEED!
if you read this Billie hang in there bro. we love you and appreciate you. not everyone is out to get you and sometimes life just doesn't grant everyone the same luck.
I could just see that there was SO much going through his mind! God bless him!
To have been beaten down by life the way this man is. Is heartbreaking. Not once did he smile. Please Mark, keep track of this man. I was shocked about his phone bill!!! I have my own issues with tissues but this gives a person perspective. I wish I had money to give to him. I know others will help. GOD bless you for talking to these poor people on the fringes of society. ♥️
this man is holding a lot of anger and pain inside.
Very somber and melancholy man. You can barely see his eyes but his expression is so intense.
I love it here in kanawha county. .moved here from florida 3 years ago.
Bless his heart. I like this man and his strength of character. He knows he has made mistakes and admits it. I hope he gets the help he needs and overcomes his current circumstances.
He reminds me of Phil Robertson from duck dynasty
That's the first thing I thought of when he started talking
"One.. When you go up against a person, don't go head on on'em. Two, don't take somebody lightly."
Billie is the "person" and the "somebody". ♥️🙏🏻
Sending all of my love to Billie even if he doesn’t want it 💔
💟 I love the Appalachian Mountain people and their interview’s. I have family that came from there. In the late 1800’s they drove their team of mules all the way from Virginia and relocate in the middle of Idaho country, what a fascinating culture. Billy, I really enjoyed your story, thanks for sharing. 🥰
This is the kind of person I would like to help.
Protect this man Mark!
This man is impressive. He doesn’t speak with as much of an accent as he may believe. He has a soft, intelligent sounding Southern accent and I hope he can find some comfort. If my father slept under a bridge, I would be ashamed of myself. His five children can come together and help him. One is a lawyer? She could help him immensely.
It's so sad to see a man like this homeless. These old guys are the salt of the earth and have so much to teach.
I can hardly look at the pain on his face..
I grew up in the NE Alabama hills and it was tough. You worked, went to school and came back and worked. Summertime was ALL work. You looked forward to football season when you could do that instead of working the fields. It has changed quite a bit and I hated it but there is a part that misses it.
"My best year? None." Holy shit.
This man has my utmost respect! Good Sir, if I can ever help you, I am here.
I agree with him with this generation we had to work everyday very seldom went to school life wasn't easy but we sure learned respect
Would love an update on this awesome yet stoic soul.
There so much pain in his voice. It’s such a shame he’s in the position he’s in.
We need more strong men like this gentleman.
Thankyou Billie, it was lovely to hear your story, i do pray God covers you and i pray you can live in comfort. ,❤
You can just tell by his demeanor, nevermind his looks, that this is a man that's lived a truly hard life.
Yes, and I’d love to sit down beside this man and hear more stories about his life. This is a real dude, no BS.
@@zimmy4868 , how do you know that?
Hell yeah, he's led a hard life. He doesn't drink/drug and looks a 75yo at 54. God Damn!!
@@aspartamekillsyaknow9019 He was born in '54, so do the math.
@paradoxstudios6639 dude, you're like a year too late. I watched this last year & didn't catch his BD. Sorry, not sorry
A federal lawyer, a nurse, a school teacher and two children in the forces.
Definitely a legacy to live on.
I am wondering why he didn’t live with any of them until he can get on his feet. I am sure there is more to the story, but I would not want my dad living on the street.
Likely all lies. I don’t believe a word of it. It’s just a bunch of tall tales and delusions from a man that has wasted his life.
And they want nothing to do with him
dude is delusional - you really believed that?
@@craiganczelowitz7225 Yes, either he is delusional, or he completely alienated his children and they hate him.
This man has been needing to have this conversation for a long time. It's likely the first true conversation he's had in years. I can feel the pain in his voice. He makes no excuses for life's issues, just acknowledges his own faults and keeps it moving. God bless him. I hope and pray he finds peace in this life.
amen
19 minutes wasnt even close to enough. this man could use hours to talk it out. and the world we live in now would be open to help him. hope we catch up with him down the road
He is indeed in need of compassion and understanding: this is basic human decency and he seems like a decent fellow. But I don't see how sky fairies are going to help him.
@@cyberpleb2472 If there is no God (sky fairies as you say) what is the point of decency? Life is meaningless, decency is meaningless, in fact, counter intuitive, to a godless human. Only God makes life worthy of compassion. Otherwise, humans should just kill and take as much as they can in a short meaningless existence.
Aren't you the one who needs compassion...?
R/ttttttttt/
I'm from Appalachia myself (although from an urban area) and I've known loads of people like this. He's like a living artifact. If you dragged a mountain man from 1840 into the present day to interview - this is exactly what you'd get.
I believe that...He has a old soul..
Not quite but similar I suppose
Lmao you weren’t around in 1840 so stfu
You sure had to work for that one Mark
Well, I don't think he'd talk about Comcast...
I love the fact that Mark is willing to leave those moments of silence between questions. You can see the reflection that goes along with answering his questions.
silence is used commonly in counseling… it allows the person to reflect and continue to open up more
I got legitimately pissed off when I heard that he owes Verizon almost $10,000. I don't see how that could happen without the predatory practices these telcos use. And please, tell me what Verizon could have possibly provided this man that's worth $10,000. If he wasn't paying bills for years, why was the service still going? To owe that much, Verizon preyed on this man like they do so many. AT&T is especially bad about this too. They love to prey on the young and the elderly. Easy money for them.
There is no way this man should be 10k in debt to Verizon. That sort of thing should never happen. That is crooked business.
This man's story is interesting, as is his character. I don't mean to dismiss the rest of the interview or the rest of this man's life. I just cannot stand that people are victimized so much by corporations these days.
He robbed them and did 12 years for it.
@@briannovak3167 Did I miss that in the video? Got a news article or something?
@@p5eudo883 10:35 minute mark
I wonder if he could just declare bankruptcy and start over.
It does seem pretty shady that he owes that much to Verizon.
He isn’t a saint (who is?) but he certainly could use some financial advise so he can get back on his feet. At least take that burden off of him.
@@Staygoldfarms you can’t file bankruptcy if you can’t pay the filing fees.
I'd be interested in knowing why his kids haven't stepped up to take care of him. I couldn't imagine my father living under a bridge. He's been gone 9 years and I'd do anything for one minute with him.
I pray they reconnect. The pain in his voice is hard to hear.
He says they help him as much as they can. Sometimes it's just not possible to lift a person up the way you want to, for all sorts of reasons.
Some people do not accept help in certain forms. Either out of pride. Or because they don't want to be a burden.
He may not want to live differently.
@@ladyprepper4 everyone needs family. Everyone.
@@ladyprepper4 no one wants no family. No one.
He looks like a 19 century Russian writer. And Im sure with his life's experience he is one in a sense. There is wisdom in his eyes.
i was just going to say that! he looks a lot like dostoyevsky. his life experiences echo dostoyevsky’s too in a way.
Yeah he def. has that Dostoevsky thing going on! Good observation!
yes I'd love to paint a portrait of him
Hope this man gets the help he needs
Looks like a confederate soldier.
“I don’t call them friends, I call them associates” This is a wise man indeed.
said that exactly as i read this lmfao
As if he's a made guy, ha!
Damn Straight!
me and my friends always said the same. even adding a third category of “familiars”, meaning you arent associated but know em
@blackline66
Yeah. Or a mobster, indeed.
The Appalachian people are by far my favorite interviews, so interesting
I agree, I find them riveting.
Yes most definitely.
Same
Me too, and I am from the place
i also like the appalachian interviews. They go straigh to the point. no waste of words. The alcoholism, drug addiction and lack of jobs is a cancer in this comunity.
It’s not easy to open up about such difficult life situations like this. His story is truly humbling and reminds me to count my blessings. I’m praying for him 🙏🏽
What a generically thoughtful comment. You could post the same thing on every video on this channel.
🤢
Amen.🙏❤️
@@badmash5190 You sure righted that wrong.
I miss the first part. Did he say he was a hillbilly?
Stop following me 😂
He said "i been lonely, since 2013" he mustve really loved that woman😭 hope he gets what he deserves- a happy, comfortable life and home to live out the rest of his days♡
This part really brought tears to my eyes. :(
Please set up a Go Fund Me page for this gentleman. There's so much one could say about Billie. He has a magnificent face. I would love to see a painting of him. Somehow, he has managed to capture my heart with his honesty and dignified presence. I wish you all the best, Billie. You deserve nothing less.
He touched me aswell. I want to help
He reminds me of Robert E Lee in the movies. but I’m not sure he’s being honest. If he has 5 kids with good jobs. Why is he homeless under a bridge? I think he needs help for sure. I feel so bad for him.
There is a Go fund link in the description box 🌟
@@ConJota, thank you!
Drop a link I got something for Billie
Mark has to receive an award parallel to the Oscars, his channel is simply incredible.
This is too real for hollywood tho
@@HumanOptimization any equivalent award would also be good
That’s almost an insult, the Oscar’s are a joke. He deserves something more like a Pulitzer Prize.
Does RUclips have awards of some sort?
I'd vote for this channel to receive the "Best Documentary..." Or similar.
@agEyal, I was thinking the same thinking. Mark's work is worthy of the highest documentary award. Riveting!
This man should write a book on herbal Appalachian forest medicine I would 10000% buy it! You know he is a good man and it really hurts to watch this
I thought that was particularly pertinent myself, the world is crying out for natural medicines, to capture this information from Billie would be blessing to the world. An amazing man, not much older than myself. Im also of no fixed abode, yet very happy about my future I have freedom just like Billie.
Yes!! I am with you on this! Imagine the knowledge he has. This one hurt to watch, kept praying for him & hating I couldn’t do anything else really.
This hurts man, he needs help both mentally and financially
I'm from Kanawha County this old dude is a addict he needs to help himself he's just lazy af notice he didn't want to explain how he lost his home
He really does, it's very sad that none of his children could offer him a home. No way could I let my dad live under a bridge.
@@dmills7812 this has nothing to do with lazyness
@@dmills7812 can you explain further? Ton of us are interested
@@bobsaul4568just responding to the lady saying somebody needs to help this dude financially he says he worked so hard as a kid figured that would have instilled some type of work ethic homeless people here is Charleston wv is crazy they get shipped in here by the bus loads because they have so many programs n food pantrys n churches n shelters here to help there at every intersection begging for change he sleeps under the bridge so nobody will bother him let me tell you it ain't that bad here I know life's hard n some people are dealt a bad hand from the start but what is this guy doing to make his life better can't just hang under the bridge all day n wait for somebody to help you
I think you can see this mans life on his face. It's been straight up hard for him.
His kids have done well, he deserves respect for that.
It's hard to help old-timers like Billie. They tend to reject charity. I wish him the best and hope he can find a way to seek & accept help.
I think you're right. Very proud man.
at this point he should have the right to some kind of pension and a pension is not charity. at a certain age almost nobody can live with just working OR living in the street and find food. you get old and that's life. i think he kind of got lost in this process. just accept you are old and need a little help. not accepting that is to me being actually insane.
One of your finest portraits Mark and one of the most interesting things I've listened to.
This is the great American novel in photography.
Ooh.. I love that!
Yea a.good interview
We NEED more Appalachian interviews.
Real "Salt of the Earth" people.
Interviewer: what were the best years of your life?
Man: none.
That hits hard.
He sound like a man who's pride has been broken and depression has taken him . I'd hazard a guess that it's this that might stop him from allowing his children to help him. You can tell he is a man who had a lot of pride and for men like this to accept charity and not being able pull their own weight can one of hardest thing they will ever have to overcome. Help can literally surround some of us but until we open our hearts, ignore our heads and accept it . Nothing will surely change.
Very well said
He's a person who's been down so long that he doesn't know what up is.
He talks like a lot of people who've had a hard life. I'd say that he's depressed but probably doesn't even realize it. I definitely don't agree that depression has "taken him". I reckon he'd be a hard man to "take". All of the older generation in my family, both sides, talk like he does. I also wouldn't say his prides been broken at all. People from that generation and area were taught that pride goes before the fall. Also, just personal opinion here, but pride probably doesn't get you anywhere when you're homeless or in dire straights. Really I wish there were more people like him, straight talking, honest, no nonsense, doesn't volunteer extra information.
Y by yy
You have a bit of understanding, to live it is whole different thing.
They don’t make people like this anymore. This man has made a lot of mistakes and is hurting. Yet, not one excuse or point of the finger to place blame. He owns everything he’s done and every decision he’s made. God bless you Sir and thank you for this interview.
Don't get caught up in the whole "This new generation isn't this or that" nonsense.
His isn't first nor the last generation that knows how to own their mistakes.
ruclips.net/video/Ma-XJc_CqPI/видео.html
You are so right.The truth came out through his pores.
WTF? Made a lot mistakes? His wife was killed, then his girlfriend died of heart failure. The world has fucked this guy sideways.
Bingo. Well said.
@@pobresmeagol True but, he's not blaming anyone else for his poor decisions.
Props to Mark for getting this man to open up. People don’t understand how difficult it is to receive closed ended answers when you’re asking open ended questions. It’s not easy to stay patient
Well, Mark's been thru a lot, he knows how to deal with it. It was difficult for us too, to listen. Especially with all his inner pain, that was not put into words, but u could feel it 💔
Yes he's drawing the man out of himself.
It’s also not easy telling difficult life stories like this
He’s lucky to ever get genuine answers after coaxing people into interviews for money.
@@Needawholepailofwater a lot of people just want a chance to be truthful. Some people would Probly do it for free. But hey. Money helps a lot of things.
My heart breaks knowing he lost his love to drunk driver. I'm glad he had children that did amazing.
I doubt it. I think he's lying. It would be nice to hear from these kids and find out their version of the story.
This gentleman is the most direct and sure footed person I’ve seen in a long time. The way he answers the questions with the most direct response is a sure sign of self awareness. He stops immediately after most of his answers due to him being very sure that is all that is needed. Todays world and it’s psych tests may claim him to have mental instability but be assured this man is completely competent and well versed in how to deal with the world around him in his own way.
Easily the thing I noticed and admire about the man.
I feel the same. He is rock solid. I would NOT want him to mix with allopathic medicine at all. They'd have a field day. Best to stay away and remain country pure. IMO. the priority here is getting him back under a roof.
How do you find a virgin in West Virginia? Find one who can run faster than her brothers.
During childhood, I lived in his area. I barely have one good memory. There were a lot of people who spoke and acted like him. My take on him and the people like him is the opposite of yours. They lacked self-awareness. They kept their answers short and closed because they were hiding something.
How does Sùmelly Sock know this? Smelly Sock did not walk in their shoes.
I went through similar experiences. I had , i was faced with similar forks in the road, similar sets of choices. My background was similar.
I was becoming taciturn and secretive just like him and the others.
It was common to lose ones virginity by age 11. How? To ones parents or siblings. If you were lucky, to your cousin.
Similar bad things had happened to me, and i was on the same road of bad choices as them. I was becoming like them. Had I not left the area, that 3rd world cess pit of the USA clalled Apalachia, I have no doubt I would have turned out like him.
They were cruel, mean(spirited, hateful people. They wre violent. They were drunks. A google search of my former classmates, the children of such people and who would grow up to become like that, shows around half to be on sexual predator watch lists and prison histories for other crimes. Sure, they were tough, but they destroyed evertying they touched.
@@smellysock4260 it sounds like you have a lot of demons to deal with. I wish you the best.
Ya this man directness and integrity is so admirable. Even though his life ended under a bridge, his life and him as a person is remarkable. Not a perfect person, lots of flaws, but some strong personality traits that are a model for the rest of us