one love
hedley
PS…my late sisters name was Isa with the emphasis on the i .

Most of the time I give something when it’s asked, but occasionally I’m just not in a generous mood or I’m in a big hurry, and at those times, I don’t give because I feel I would be giving begrudgingly or out of a sense of guilt rather than really wanting to. I believe the negative energy attached to that act gets passed along to that person and doesn’t do him/her or yourself any good. When I travel I keep a supply of money on me to give to the poor who ask. Fortunately there aren’t nearly as many living in poverty in this country. I’ve had the idea of keeping a special little “blessed” purse in my bag with money esp. for these times. Think I might have to finally create that little purse of blessings.

PS. I don’t agree that really feeling someone’s pain and expressing that by crying is a debilitating act. If anything, allowing that expression can be freeing in itself as it connects you deeply to your humanity, spirit.

Your story reminds me of a moment I experienced while I was in college, that I will never forget; one day after class, on my way to the train home, I stopped at at McDonald’s to grab a late lunch (I know - BAD - but this was a long time ago, I was young and foolish). While I was waiting in line, a homeless man approached me in exactly the same manner you described - unassuming and polite.

“Excuse me, sir - can you buy me a hamburger?”

Instantly the thoughts started racing through my head: “Hey, Jp - I know that usually you DON’T give money to homeless folks, for fear that they will only use it for booze or something instead of trying to help themselves; but, this guy isn’t asking for your money. He’s clearly so hungry, and just needs something to eat…” It then occurred to me how much more difficult it would be for me to swallow my pride enough to beg a complete stranger for food, instead of money - I still can’t really wrap my brain around WHY that is…suddenly the decision of whether to help him or not became obvious.

“I will gladly buy you anything you want.” He joined me in line, and when we reached the counter I allowed him the dignity of ordering for himself. He went for the McD.L.T. meal (yes, that was still on the menu back then - LAWD I am old). I ordered one for myself as well, and bought some cookies for the guy for good measure.

I invited him to sit down with me while we dined on our cheeseburgers and fries. We didn’t even have a conversation - just sat there across from each other, alternately chewing and smiling at one another. When we finished, we got up, and he quietly said “thank you”. I nodded, and we went our separate ways.

I never got his name, or his story, or anything. I didn’t need to, I was just enjoying savoring the moment. I think he was, too. I was on F’n cloud nine for like a week after that. I will never forget the humanity, and gratitude in his eyes - I had never experienced anything like that so directly before, or since.