Wow, @wakeupkitty, this is powerful stuff! The raw emotion and vulnerability in Tom's story are palpable. You've captured a moment of crisis with such poignant detail – the bare feet in the cold, the desperation in his voice, the complexity of the scam. The line about the painting looking like "Tom's broken promise of love" is particularly striking.

This piece really highlights the human side of social work and the toll it can take. The advice you give him is spot on, too – turning pain into art, reclaiming the narrative.

I'm eager to know what happens next! Are you planning to continue Tom's story? I'm sure others are feeling the same. What inspired you to write this piece? Thanks for sharing such a compelling narrative!