Living in Northern California , I witness poverty and homelessness on a daily basis. There is not a stop light or freeway exit that I stop at where I don't see somebody holding up a sign asking for a handout. Even though it's a daily occurance, I will NEVER get used to seeing people sleeping on the sidewalks begging on the street corners.
There are many reasons that people end up on the streets and I'm not here to judge anyone. One thing I do know is that man or woman looking for a handout is somebody's child. When I look at it in those terms, it's pretty hard to turn a blind eye to them because if my child was in need I would want somebody to help them. That being said how is one to determine who truly needs help or who is going to use that money for drugs or alcohol? Since I work hard for my money and refuse to let it go to waste, I took money out of the equation and decided to use my time, smile and some food.
I keep bottled water in my car at all times. Panhanding can take a lot out of you on the streets and a nice drink of water is always a welcomed gesture. Not only can it be used to refresh somebody, but it can also be used to wash up or even brush your teeth. I also collect soaps, shampoos, conditioners and lotions from hotels to hand out as well. You would be suprised how appreciative people are when I hand them out in little bags with stickers or notes tucked inside. Most importantly I look people in their eyes and call them brother or sister when I give them something. It makes me feel that we are actually connected, and when I see my sister or brother in need I should be there to help feel that need. It may not be a lot, but these small gestures can be a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. So the next time you come in contact with a homeless person or a panhandler on the streets, remember they are somebody's child and to treat them with the love and kindness that you want your child to be treated with.
I agree with you. You never know what happened to someone that changed their life forever. My husband lost his job 2 years ago and was unemployed for 9 months. I often think about how that could have gone one way or another for us but luckily he did find a job. I have given money before but I like the idea of water or creating a blessing bag.
Here in California, many of us are just a paycheck away from being homeless. We all know what happened in our pasts, but we don’t know what the future holds.
My mother looks at the homeless and has always taught us to think it was God right there in front of us and think how would we treat them. While I was in the hospital for a month I was given so much shampoo, body wash and mouthwash that I’ve made kits to hand out. You never know someone’s story and if in a place to help go for it!
May God bless your mother. Her legacy and humanitarianism will live on for generations to come.
I agree with you! I will never get used too to seeing people sleeping in sidewalks and begging in the corners. I salute you! You’re really kind I don’t think someone will do this to collect some shampoo and soap from hotel, I love the way you express in homeless people.
What a beautiful post. It really makes you feel thankful and makes me want to help out others. Beautiful title, it really makes you think and you know what you’re right! The water bottle is such a great idea!
Being a couponer, I always try to get a couple of “homeless bags” in my trunk. I try and throw some snacks, food, socks etc into them. That way when we see one, we can give them some goodies. It always makes me so sad, because like you those are someones children.