Editor, I read the letter from a deeply concerned citizen about what he perceives to be a panhandling epidemic. ("Say 'no' to panhandlers") I was disheartened and shocked by the callous comments about people he obviously does not know.
Does he know their circumstances or what led them to that current station in life? Does he consider to what lengths he might go if his back were against the wall? He even calls out how terrible it is going to get around Christmas. So that got me thinking, here he is calling out the birth of The Christ and yet demeaning people who are outwardly saying they have a need; legitimate or not. Their stated need is not up for debate and we all have a choice to give or not to give, but if you are Christian, ... or at least clinging to a Christian holiday, then maybe you should follow the adage, What Would Jesus Do? (WWJD) What would he do in that situation? Scorn the beggar? "Judge not." "Give to him that asketh." It’s really not up to me to speculate on the genuine need of someone or the eventuality of what I may choose to give. But if someone is in need, perhaps now more than ever is the time to quietly lift the hands that hang down and "impart of your substance." Merry Christmas. Samuel Newey Farr West
Comments