Famous People Who Were Homeless

"You got a dream...you gotta protect it." These were the words of actor Will Smith in the movie "Pursuit of Happyness." The film depicts a sometimes homeless man's attempts to find not just a job, but a great job. Why would someone in a desperate position hold out for a highly coveted job rather than just any job? It's about the dream.
The list of famous people who were homeless at one time or another is extensive. With some exceptions, these "homeless-to-Hollywood" stars have a common thread: their homelessness is usually tied to their dreams.

History

Famous people who were homeless include historical figures like Charlie Chaplin and more recent names like David Letterman, Jim Carrey and Hillary Swank. Some, like Carrey, experienced homelessness with their families. Chaplin, too, was a child victim of homelessness due to family problems.
However, the larger percentage of famous transients suffered their fates while pursuing their dreams. These people differ from the traditional homeless forced into their situation by poverty, substance abuse and psychological problems

Significance

Many would argue it does not matter how a person becomes homeless. However, it stands to reason someone with star qualities should be able to secure employment in a factory or restaurant. Famous people who were homeless sought to fulfill their dreams at a price--homelessness.
The plight of these individuals is a testament to courage and determination. However, their numbers do not bear significant weight when analyzing homelessness statistics. They are not truly representative of the homeless situation in America.

Effects

What effect does their positive outcome have on society? On one hand, they were protecting their dreams and their sacrifice paid off. Yet many aspiring stars do not have the same results. The situation raises the dilemma of how far to pursue a dream. It is unlikely that stories of failed pursuits are displayed for comparison.

Considerations

It is true many famous people were homeless while doggedly pursuing their dreams. However, there are also stories of triumph where a homeless situation provided the strength to excel. These individuals rose to fame because of their struggling backgrounds.
Charlie Chaplin won an Oscar for his abilities. However, Chaplin began as a child forced to the streets following the death of his father and the mental illness of his mother. Chaplin rose above his impoverished childhood. He is an example of someone who did not experience homelessness in pursuit of a dream. He drew strength from his situation and became famous.

Benefits

Again, the movie "Pursuit of Happyness" provides food for thought on the subject of homelessness while pursuing dreams. In the movie, actor Will Smith reflects on the Declaration of Independence and the famous words "...life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." Smith marvels at Thomas Jefferson's foresight in choosing the word "pursuit." Even at the earliest stages, Americans strove to capture their dreams, no matter the obstacles.