Being faced with greater poverty than I'm typically used to always poses a wealth of questions. What is our response? How do we help? Does giving money fix the problems or make people dependant on your generosity?
Today, however, was a first.
A child approached me and a friend and asked for 20 pesos (about $0.40 USD).
He couldn't have been more than eight years old.
He looked at us with big eyes.
He let his PLEEAASSEEE linger just long enough to touch our hearts.
His rustled clothes and disheveled hair underscoring his need.
I was struggling with what my response should be.
I have the money. I could give it.
My response... "KID, WHO ARE YOU?!?!?!?"
How could I be so calloused?
HE WAS A WHITE KID AT THE SCHOOL I WAS VISITING!!!
All he wanted was mango smoothy.
Stunned, we caved to his request.
I still can't believe this happened!
2 comments:
Noel I'm just catching up on your blog now. Forgive me!! I am impressed with your travels, thoughts, and experiences. I am praying for you all the time!!
haha, i'm the friend in this story:) we did cave, which makes me wonder why i don't give more often when asked for money. why do i mistrust what it will mean in some people's lives, but not in the life of this little kid? anyway, i might regret giving him money for smoothie a little bit - but it sure makes a great story! ;) we're praying for you in Davao - i'll send an email soon with stories from the rest of our travels.
loved seeing you!
carrie
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