The homeless
Perhaps I’m overly emotional these days, but last night, something happened which really affected me — To the point of tears, even.
Jeremy and I grabbed a late dinner at Nick’s on Commercial Drive, and when we were leaving, I noticed this older, very thin man rummaging through his knapsack in the parking lot behind the restaurant. He pulled out this small straw bowl, and held it out to us. He politely, but with an urgent tone (not dissimilar to the rest of the homeless people) asked if we had any spare change. We both apologized and said we didn’t, as we approached the car. He continued on… “Please, then, could I have your leftovers? I’m so hungry, and can’t afford to buy any food?” Again, because it’s become second nature to me, I said, I’m sorry but this is my lunch for tomorrow.
He thanked us for our time, and walked up to the front of the restaurant as we were leaving. It hit me then, and as tears swelled in my eyes rethinking what had just happened. Did I really need that leftover spaghetti that much? It certainly wouldn’t put me in his position to offer it to him.
So, I rolled down my window in my nice, warm car, and handed the man the food. He was so happy and thanked us profusely. All this over a few leftovers? I felt so sad… It took me over an hour to shake the feeling. What have I become that I wouldn’t initially give someone my leftovers when they obviously needed it?
UPDATE: Here’s a link to give to The Union Gospel Mission — An organization that feeds 500 people every day. I’ve given during the holidays in the past, but I think I’m going to learn from this experience and give a regular, monthly donation. They are remarkable people doing remarkable things.
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Nice. I’m always helping out whenever i can, clothes, spare change, food. =)
You have a beautiful, warm soul. Don’t beat yourself up because of your initial reaction.
I agree you are a wonderful person. The fact that you are still thinking about the incident last night and trying to figure out your feelings speaks volumes. Many people would have just told the guy to fuck off and never given it a second thought. Don’t worry – you are not headed down a path to become a heartless bitch!
I guess a good thing to ask yourself is why did you initially say no?
Hi Rich! Welcome…
Yes, I’m now realizing that I can do so much more, (even just me, a single person) than I have been doing. Everyone deserves a break, and if I can help someone have a slightly more comfortable existence, I will do my best.
Youre my friend
i second the above thoughts. sometimes it’s hard to always be sensitive when life makes you feel cynical all the time. the most important thing is that you rethought your initial reaction. *hug*
Thanks guys — I felt *so* much better once I gave a decent sized donation to UGM. Funny that I’d give to a religious organization when I’m quite against organized religion… But, those guys do such a great job of taking care of the less-fortunate part of our community.
Java: Youre my friend too.
Cor: I guess I’m becoming hardened? Or, perhaps it’s because where Jeremy lives we literally get bombarded by several homeless souls every time we leave his home? I’m not sure…