I have long wondered how to deal with panhandlers in a compassionate, helpful way. We don't have many here in Todi, but there are a few whom I see often.
After discussing it with one of my friends, we decided on an action plan. While I usually tell them to go talk to the priests (reasoning that they're in a better position to point them to help than I am), I have a new strategy: offer them work.
This morning I put the strategy into action. There was a panhandler at our local grocery store whom I see often. I asked if he wanted work, and he replied affirmatively. I told him to clean up the parking lot (which was unfortunately trashed up), and I would pay him when I got out of the store.
He immediately set to work: the first action was to hide from my view. I kept an eye on him, and he didn't pick up a single thing.
I mentioned the interaction to the checkout cashier (and the people behind heard as well), and she confirmed that she's offered him a sandwich in the past, which has been refused.
Anyway, in this case I was able to move on with a clear conscience: I had offered him useful work which was refused. I have no obligation to give him money just because he's a living, breathing human being -- even out of compassion -- if he himself refuses the help offered.
And I can rest secure in the knowledge that I can identify those who really need the help as opposed to those who simply want a handout.
Love,
Alexandra
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