i was sitting at Starbucks trying to cool off with a frappucino. a group of five kids walked in and starting going around and asking for money. all five eventually came up to me, one by one, to ask for money. there was absolutely no timidity in asking. it was more of a raw desperation. their mom eventually came by, and they all walked away.
i've never made it a habit to give money to people who beg for it. i've always given food, drinks, clothes, or blankets. i don't want to give money because it's just a short-term fix, but i don't know if i've ever done anything to bring any long-term relief.
what i would've done in the States is bought them lunch. what did i think today? "what if they come back EVERY afternoon and expect a meal from me?" okay...then i buy them lunch tomorrow, the next day, the day after next.... "what if they bring more friends?" "wait, what am i here for? this could've been an opportunity to build rapport with these kids and their mother. they might not have cared, but i could've shared christ with them."
i think i just fell prey to the customs and manners of polite society. geez.
3 comments:
i think the culture might be different in mexico, so an american response may not work? i find each situation unique and might merit a unique response. does that make sense or am i just blabbing?
you're not just blabbing...but what is this unique response?
...is your excitement for france growing? :-)
i wish i was there too! love the farmers market
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