Panhandlers

[Kevy Baby]

First, if the title is considered a derogatory term, please excuse my oversite: it is not the moniker that I wanted to discuss.

I am curious about other peoples' views on people approach you asking for money. I am not talking about relatives, I mean the people on the street, it the local fast-food joint, etc.

Generally speaking, I do not give money to these people; in fact, I can't remember the last time I did. From somewhere in my past, I recall the general recommendation to not give money as it encourages the behavior. But on the other hand, I want to be able to help someone truly in need.

I remember a recent episode where I was buying some fast food for the road and a man who was apparently homeless car in to get some water. I don't remember the specifics, but shortly after he left, I had a nagging feeling that I should have helped him; bought him a meal. When I was leaving, I looked around for him, but he as gone.

I thought about him for most of my drive home, really regretting that I didn't help. There was something about him that just stuck with me.

I am curious what other people think on this topic.