It’s very easy for us to just walk by, ignoring them, and continue with the rest of our lives, but have you ever considered what it’s like being on the receiving end of such a cold encounter? Didn’t think so.
At the traffic light, on the sidewalk, outside the grocery store. What have they ever done to be treated as if they don’t exist. As if they’re less than human? Your first thought would probably be, “Yeah, well they obviously got themselves into this situation. They can get themselves out.” No, that’s not always the case. Unfortunately for some of us, we draw the short straw and there’s nothing we can do about it.
The homeless have nothing to their names. No rooves over their heads. No food in their bellies. Nobody looking out for them, but we can certainly change that in the smallest of ways.
When being approached by a beggar why don’t you instead just give them the few cents you have. You might think they’re expecting to receive some tens of Rands from you, but in reality even as little as 5c will be the difference between getting a loaf of bread or going hungry for yet another consecutive night
But it’s not just the money that counts. If you’ve got no money to give, then hand them that almost finished cold drink of yours. That half eaten sandwich. That packet of chips you really don’t need. This would be the most appreciated contribution you could make to those in need. SOMETHING to help them get through the day.
“But I really don’t have anything to give!” Well then don’t ignore them, and brush them off as if they’re a nuisance. Simply acknowledge them, and let them know that you genuinely have nothing to offer. It might not seem like much, but being seen and acknowledged feels a lot better than being given the cold-shoulder. If you were in their shoes, you’d very much prefer being seen than ignored.
A little help and attention will go a long way. Be the love and light that you so much like to receive from others.