Just like any other day of this week, I sat at home, doing some productive things and some not so productive things. But today was definitely special for me.
A young man knocked at my door. From what I vaguely understood of his weak English, he wanted some money to buy food.
Instead of giving him some money, I thought it would be best to give him food instead. So i asked him 'Would you like me to get some food for you?' and I pointed in the direction behind me. His face beamed with joy and happiness, so away I went.
Whilst i did that, i realised that this young man at my door was genuinely hungry and wanted some food. You could tell that he wasn't after money at all.
I got together an apple, tangerine, a Walkers crisp packet and some Caprison juice and placed them into an Asda carrier bag. Then I offered it to him and he thanked me. I'm glad that I made someone's day a little more pleasant and it brought a smile to my face too!
Had i known at the time that he was with a family, I would've offered him more but I pray that the food I offered, gives him the strength and ability to survive through the day.
Such a humbling experience.
Comments
Good for you! It's awful for the homeless, especially in stinging weather, and you're great for deciding to do that. I agree it's often more considerate to offer food or clothes or something than just giving money to people who may be too mentally vulnerable to spend it on those urgent needs.
It was the first thing that had come to mind and was more of a gut instinct reaction. I just went to the pantry (under the stairs), got the crisp and drink out, then ran to the fridge and got the fruit out. It happened all too quickly. I haven't seen that man ever since.
"How many people find fault in what they're reading and the fault is in their own understanding" Al Mutanabbi