This morning when I was driving out of the Trader Joe's parking lot in West Hills, I noticed a man standing on the corner with a placard in his hands that stated "unemployed and homeless vet". I don't usually give money to people on the street and am embarrassed to say that I am usually sceptical about their status, but today I realized that if someone has reached such a low point in their life that they have to resort to asking people for handouts, who am I to judge their motives? I had about $10 in my purse and handed it over. In this economy, it's not unlikely that one of these days I'm going to recognize someone on the street in the same predicament. There but for the grace of God go I.
Wilmington Real Estate 4U 910.547.1446 - Wrightsville Beach, NC
Assistant to Tish Lloyd
It's only my opinion, and it doesn't amount to much, but you did the right thing. There, but for the Grace of God, go many of us.
Nov 08, 2010 01:52 PM
Home Solution Real Estate Services - North Charleston, SC
SC Lowcountry - Charleston, Dorchester, Berkeley
Rose, interesting perspective. I was approached at an ATM recently by an elderly lady in a "scooter" chair, wheeling out of the nearby burger joint parking lot, asking for money. She had a hand-written note that said she had not eaten in a day, and that she would work for the money. I judged the situation - first, she obviously was staking out the ATM, second she was obviously not capable of working, and last there was a faint odor of alcohol . . .
I told her I couldn't help her, and then I felt bad all the rest of the weekend, even now when I think about it. Your comment "if someone has reached such a low point in their life that they have to ask for handouts, then who am I to judge" struck a chord with me.
I'll more humbly consider other requests in the future. . .
Nov 08, 2010 02:01 PM
John Aaroe Group - Sherman Oaks, CA
Teresa, don't feel bad, I'm sure your instincts were correct about this lady.
Nov 08, 2010 02:11 PM
Glendale, CA
Rose - I think, you did the right thing. You made a difference on this person life for a day.
Nov 08, 2010 04:04 PM
Metro Life Homes - Palm Springs, CA
California and Hawaii Real Estate (310) 497-9407
Rosie,
That's such a tough call.
I hate the thought of being manipulated by someone in the name of charity, but at the same time I hate the thought of not being able to help someone in need simply because I let my doubts get the best of me.
Sometimes I wish I were a little less Italian, and a little more Canadian..............
You've just made a deposit into your account at the Bank of Kharma!
Nov 08, 2010 04:58 PM
Century 21 Sherlock Homes - Rockville Centre, NY
Broker C21 Sherlock Homes, Rockville Centre, LI, N
I think you did the right thing, it doesn't matter if he was a vet or out of work. You have got to be at rock bottom to stand there with a note. We are here to help, not judge.
Nov 09, 2010 12:56 AM
Diadem Property Inspections - Serving Southeast Michigan - Troy, MI
The House Sleuth
There is a lot of "rock bottom" going on. A little generosity goes a long way!
Nov 09, 2010 03:49 PM
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