As Joe and I were walking out of a store headed to our car an older, well-used, dirty, clunker of a sedan approached us ever so slowly from the opposite direction. It was difficult not to make eye contact with the young scruffy looking guy cruising by. He stopped and immediately engaged us in “conversation” muttering something like “I’m not asking for money. I’m from Washington state and could use some help.” At this point I walked on, wanting to escape the intercourse that would draw me deeper into the “guilt pit”. The pangs of guilt flood my mind as I looked back checking out his story verified by his WA plates only to see Joe opening his wallet handing a bill to the out-of-towner. After the exchange Joe walked toward me muttering to himself to which I inquired as to the remaining details that I missed. ( Joe and I have often had these “discussions” about handing out money to “needy people”.) Joe always gives. I always walk away with guilt. (Probably deserved felt because I would really like to help but am fearful…of what? I’m not sure.)) Joe related that he handed the man a five dollar bill and the man got upset with him saying that “Five bucks won’t even buy my kids milk”! What is worse to feel guilty just walking by or getting “chewed out” for being charitable, but “cheap”??? I would like to “help my fellow man” but you’re damned if you do and guilty if you don’t!
