Do Unto Others….

I am, by nature, trusting and a believer in people.
We were grabbing the last of things needed on Christmas Eve.
As we are leaving the shopping area, there is a lady, standing in the cold.
She is holding a sign about needing food for 5 children, something about hydro, etc.


I have a van full of stuff.  I know not to give cash… after many a lecture.  I know it is OK to buy a meal.
We drive away.  My stomach feels sick.  What if there are 5 children with nothing on Christmas eve?
The boys and I drive to the grocery store for a gift certificate and to  McD for a meal and coffee.


Here’s the thing, I  realize that she may be scamming people.  But I can’t imagine standing out in the cold begging unless you really needed to.  Can you?


We go back… she is gone.  She had a limp so we figured she couldn’t have gotten far.  I prayed that if we are to help, then we will find her.  We circled the block.  As we were giving up, we see her with her husband.  Apparently , the police kicked her out.


I gave her the grocery voucher.  She started to cry.  Abbie and Joe are their names.  They moved here and his lost his license so that has left them in this situation, apparently.


I took their phone number.  That was Christmas Eve.  I haven’t been able  to stop thinking of them.


The other day, I saw her in the same spot.  My heart sunk.  Why is she there again?  Why isn’t she seeking the help that we have in place, especially in Canada?


I can’t stop thinking of them.  I am scared to call.  Though, I am not sure why.  


Do some people just want to beg?  It is so cold outside.  She looks so sad.  But I have to admit, she looked happier walking with her husband.  It is almost as if she can turn it off and on.


Tell me your thoughts… What do I do?