The Joy of Giving

My husband and I went to McDonald's last night. Three little boys were sitting near the slot where we parked. They wore soiled and torn clothings and had no slippers. The youngest among them told me they'd watch the car in exchange of money. I just nodded and head towards the door.

We got back to the car after an hour or less, the kids were still there. I already have the coins I intend to give them when one of the boys tapped the window. My husband talked to the little boy. He is asking for some coins so he can buy food. Upon hearing that, I remembered the bread I bought from a friend earlier. I told the boy I have food and showed him the bread.

The boy's face lit up and shouted with glee. He even jumped. I was surprised by his reaction. Gone was the gloomy look in his eyes. I never knew how much that 'food' meant to him. My husband, teasing the boy, asked what he wants, the money or the bread, he chose the bread. I would never forget that boy's sweet smile as he shouted thank you as we were leaving.

We left the parking area with so much joy in my heart. There's this joy that I cannot contain I have to share it. Since when does giving brings joy? I think it's when you give and is received unreservedly, thankfully, knowing that you made the receiver happy.

Sometimes, I look at these kids with passing judgments. I would even wonder what in the world are their parents doing for them to beg in the streets? Every day, children would come knocking our gates asking for leftovers. One kid even asked for a pair of slippers. Before, I only see beggars on the streets and stoplights. Now, they are coming as close to our doors. Yet, I couldn't blame our subdivision's officers for allowing these kids inside!

At one point, I refused to give because I noticed that they've been asking twice a day, in the morning and in the afternoon. I felt guilty that I did not give. I shared this with my husband and he told me to tell those kids I will only give food once in a day. He said we should thank God that we are the giver and not the beggar.

Today, the more I appreciate God's blessings and provisions to our family. We are not rich, but I praise God that we have more than enough to share to others.

I read an article from a fellow AC writer, David A. Reinstein, LCSW on how to Handle Stoplight Panhandlers with Less Guilt and commented there that I only give upon my conviction. And if there were times that I don't have anything to give even if I wanted to, I say prayers for them, I think that's the least that I can do.