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Do you give cash to panhandlers?
I'm not rich (part of the working poor actually), but I live a comfortable life. I have a clean, safe apartment, nice things, a car, a job (be it only part-time). When I'm downtown passing by a panhandler, I find myself wanting to give a little, but also thinking they should work for what they get (like the rest of us have to). Now, more and more, I feel like giving something to help them through their day, but I literally count change to make sure my bills are paid each month. I try not to be judgmental...I don't know what brought them to beg on the street, but I doubt it's how they really want to spend their days. I once gave a girl a chocolate bar I had in my purse (I didn't have any money) and she was grateful. I also gave a guy $5.00, but I think I was motivated by the fact he had a dog who looked hungry...I felt a little guilty thinking of the dog more than the man. It doesn't seem right to walk past people like they don't even exist, when they're asking for a little help.
Am I a big softie, or can a little change turn someones day around?
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