The sight of someone begging on the street can be a stark reminder of the world around us, and it’s one that has haunted me for years. This isn’t just about a single person with a cardboard sign; it’s about the nagging guilt that I’m not doing enough to help those who are less fortunate. More importantly, it’s about the example I’m setting for my children, who are learning from my actions—whether I intend for them to or not.
I wish I could claim to be endlessly charitable with my resources, whether they be time, money, or compassion. However, there have been too many moments when I’ve turned a blind eye to someone in need. Even if I suspect some might be scamming, it’s hard to deny that most wouldn’t find themselves in such a position if they had better options.
A couple of years back, my children and I found ourselves in an unfamiliar part of town. My daughter, then just five years old, spotted a man who, in her innocent eyes, looked a bit like Santa Claus. I turned to see what she was so excited about. The man had a long white beard, but that’s where the resemblance ended. He was tall and gaunt, wearing a disheveled shirt, and his cardboard sign pleaded for assistance.
In a moment of discomfort, I quickly averted my gaze from the man, trying to shield both myself and my kids from the reality of the situation. My daughter, however, was relentless with her questions: “What does his sign say? Can we help him?” Kids have a way of cutting through our emotional barriers and forcing us to confront uncomfortable truths. I hurried my children past the man, promising myself I would address the situation later, but I knew deep down that I might just avoid the conversation entirely.
As we drove home, I put on a cheerful album to distract from the emotional turmoil I felt. I told myself that buying a cake pop at Starbucks would make the guilt vanish, if only for a moment. I do consider myself a giving person in some ways—my family sponsors children during the holidays, providing gifts and necessities. Yet, I also recognize that I often prefer to stay within the comfort of my own life, even if it means ignoring the plight of others.
With around 550,000 homeless individuals counted in the United States as of early 2016, it’s becoming increasingly hard to ignore the issue. I’ve resolved to change my approach. The next time I see someone in need, I plan to offer a few dollars and extend heartfelt holiday wishes. It’s time to demonstrate to my children that charity should be unconditional, not just a seasonal obligation.
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In summary, the holidays should be a time of giving and compassion. By choosing to embrace charity over self-interest, we not only enrich the lives of others but also set a powerful example for the next generation.