Quote:
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Originally Posted by whocarz
I think it's silly that people get all up in arms about a bird, but don't give a fuck for the poor homeless bum in the alleyway.
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If the post had been about a family who'd had their home & belongings destroyed by some institutional nitwit, I bet you'd see replies of a similar flavor. (oh wait, that was the story)
When a powerful institution pulls the carpet out from beneath the innocent, especially without apparent benefit, it's very easy to find offense regardless of the victim's species. Sometimes this feeling is shared by many, and public outrage has been enough to right the wrongs. Other times the problems are institutionalized, well masked or defended, and we only have the power to provide bandaid handouts. If what we do makes us feel better, good. Maybe we'll turn that into something even better next time. If it provides real benefit, that's even better.
Human homelessness is a complex issue, certainly as deserving of concern. We do what we can to the degree we aren't petrified to inaction. There's that added aspect that can be intimidating. Potential failure, financial and possibly mental. Nothing to lose. It doesn't fit with western society's economic model of look good, have offspring, make money, buy stuff. Could things go that wrong for me? I've had my share of "what to do" moments at stop light encounters.
If you meant to remind us we should keep tabs close to home, I think you're right. 'tis the season.
Stream of consciousness... Dang it's late.