It's not uncommon to see someone who is homeless or down on their luck asking people who are walking by for spare change. I have seen the same woman in need several times. I recently approached her and introduced myself to her and asked her if I could get her anything to eat or from the Dollar Store. She said she was okay, but was trying to save up for dinner.
I do
n't feel comfortable giving money to strangers. I guess it's a societal stereotype that when you give money to someone in need, they will use it for drugs or alcohol or something else that we may not approve of. I didn't give anything to Laura (I asked her name and told her my name.) that time.
I felt bad after that encounter with her because I didn't help her that time. Yesterday, I saw her again. I decided to go to the nearby grocery store (Safeway) and got her a grocery gift card and dropped by to give it to her, along with a bundle of fresh yellow tulips. I chatted briefly with her and she was grateful for the gesture.
We may not be able to help every person in need on our own, but if we can help one person from time to time, we can really make a difference in our world. Be Kind. Help Others. Pay It Forward.
I do
n't feel comfortable giving money to strangers. I guess it's a societal stereotype that when you give money to someone in need, they will use it for drugs or alcohol or something else that we may not approve of. I didn't give anything to Laura (I asked her name and told her my name.) that time.I felt bad after that encounter with her because I didn't help her that time. Yesterday, I saw her again. I decided to go to the nearby grocery store (Safeway) and got her a grocery gift card and dropped by to give it to her, along with a bundle of fresh yellow tulips. I chatted briefly with her and she was grateful for the gesture.
We may not be able to help every person in need on our own, but if we can help one person from time to time, we can really make a difference in our world. Be Kind. Help Others. Pay It Forward.
1479 Reads
- Posted by greenurlifenow
- Apr 17, 2017
- Comments (10)
Readers Comments
SissyLee wrote: Speaking and giving to someone one the streets goes a long way. So often they are victims or treated as invisible. Thanks for you rkindness.
Madronaman wrote: Thank you for making a difference in laura's life!
Joanellenhoo wrote: I appreciate your act and applaud you for your honesty with us. Its a difficult and complex issue of knowing when and what is appropriate.
4everblooming wrote: Thank you for your humanity. Thanks for reminding me about gift cards.
healingtree wrote: Good of you to help and treat her like a real human being. Thank you.
Mish wrote: Thank you for caring and helping. Bless.
mindyjourney wrote: thank you for following your heart and being of help <3.
splain wrote: A big thank you for this.
kjoyw wrote: Thank you for doing what felt right to you! We all need to do that!
leoladyc728 wrote: I am sure your gift to Laura was just what she needed. thank you
