Okay, so here's the dilemma.
I was sitting out front reading this afternoon, and I saw this little hand reach through my gate, unlock it and then the young boy attached to the hand walked into the yard. He did not speak English. My Bahasa is not good. I could tell him I didn't understand what he was saying but he kept chattering away. Then he gestured towards his mouth, like he was hungry, and then held out his hand and said money. My heart went out to him. We have stickers on the outside posts that surround our houses, indicating which organization we work for, so I imagined him seeing those signs and thinking that he was in trouble and could seek refuge here.
I listened for awhile but then sent him on his way without anything. My concern was that if I helped him, gave him food or money, that word would spread, and the next thing I would know, I would have kids at my front door every day. But in the meantime, I didn't help this little fella. He had the biggest, softest brown eyes. He didn't look like he was starving. He had clean clothes on. His hair was washed. But I feel bad for doing nothing. At the same time, I can't open me or my organization up to beggers on the street. I feel like it was one of those moments when I had a chance to step up, to take a stance, and I failed.
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3 comments:
Yeah, I feel for you on that. It IS setting a precedent if you provide for him, because then there is that possibility that you would be inundated with villagers.
I would not see it as a failure, just an unexpected opportunity to reach out to the community where you were not equipped. The significance of the Red Cross emblem is for support. (I guess it is on the living quarters property as a safety measure?) Could your team provide a resource map for the villagers to the areas where they CAN receive support? Just a thought.
:) me
Keep on going Kathy with the great work your doing there,Just to let you know John had surgery March 9th and everything went great,he`ll be back on his feet in no time.We all miss you back here but we know the work you do is special and your a special person perfect for the job,keep smilin and god bless. Terry St.Thomas
Thanks Terry. Your support means a lot. I heard John was going under the knife. Glad to hear it went well. I hope it eases his pain--finally!
Inga, that's a great idea about providing a resource where someone can go get help (if there is such a community resource). I will definitely keep it in mind....
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