I've always been a soft heart mixed with naivety and it has cost me financially and left me skeptical of those in need. I'm one who likes to hold doors open for old ladies and young men alike and I like to throw out a handfull of change when someone is struggling to find the right change at a counter or pay for a total stranger's snack or drink. I like to pay for treats when one or a number of guys/gals dressed in military uniforms are checking out at a convenience store and I like to hand a child a quarter when he's in the accompaniment of a parent. I often tip clerks at gas stations but was told by a gal recently that "I don't need it.....I'd only buy cigarettes". Actually, it is kinda hard to feel good about giving a random tip to someone who smokes when you know where it's going.
I'll keep on with my generosity in that small way but I'm done involving myself with individuals who appeal for long term assistance. I once helped a down-and-outer get started in selling cars. Rented him a building and bought, fixed and sold vehicles. It was all my finances and after he skipped town with 3 of my cars, that was the end of that.!! Rented the same building to a guy with a family who was a whiz of a mechanic. He could have had a good business, but I preached "God Bless You" too him so much that he just got to staying home, reading his bible and the business went belly up. He didn't end up paying the rent and he also got away with a vehicle of mine. So I'll just keep on with my currentl approach in giving and it IS more blessed to give than to receive. I enjoy it alot.
That bothers me that the "God Bless You" comment is used in vain. It's well known that begging can be a profession and we each have to let our conscience be our guide on how to deal with them.
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