A Tin Cup and a Cell Phone

I have a heart, I swear. But I am also a skeptic.

When we were living in Los Angeles, it wasn't uncommon to see panhandlers at the freeway exits. Often, they were selling flowers or fruit. Sometimes playing music. Very seldom did you see someone just standing on the corner asking for cash. Every once in a while, I would make a purchase one of their items. I was a City employee and there was an ordinance against such panhandlers, so I didn't do it often. I do recall at least once that I made a purchase at a fast food restaurant and delivered it to a man with a "Will work for food" sign.

Back here in Iowa, it's different. Although I have not researched it, I've heard that panhandlers can apply for a permit to work a particular corner/exit ramp. I see people in the same spots over and over and have compassion for their situation - more or less. They are a little suspicious looking, with very new looking boots and coats. But who am I to judge since there are some really nice items available via donation organizations.

But yesterday really did me in. I watched as one of these men stepped away from the corner and faced the other direction... to use his cell phone. It made me angry to think that people like this are using our sense of humanity and emotion to make a buck - when they obviously have the capacity to do something more honest.

As I was about to post how annoyed and frustrated I was, I happened across Dan at A Slower Pace. His story is heart-warming and made me rethink my post. I shouldn't pass judgement across the board. Thanks, Dan, for reminding me that not everyone is a bad apple.