My policy on panhandling is clear:
- I buy a lot of crap that costs way too much. What a panhandler gives me materially is more honest. I get a bit of "no thing" in return for a small amount of expenditure. A bargain I understand.
- I pick favourites. I try to support a few who are there all the time. I favour women and the elderly.
- I do not quibble about giving something that will provide comfort like a good coffee or a bottle of cheap wine. If I ever find myself in that position I expect each of you to give me that - and don't give me that look when you do.
- Look in the eye and say "no, thank you" or "have a good day." Like Mormans, these folk are too easy a target for too many folk.
- I am no hero as it would be lucky if I gave 1/1000th in this way but it is good to be good and nice to be nice.
Comments
Don - July 22, 2005 2:24 PM
If that guy on Bank St won't move an inch on the narrow, busy sidewalk when I'm pushing a stroller with three kids crammed in it there's no way in hell that I'm going to give him any money. What a jerk.
So - if you ever find yourself in that position - stand up and let the strollers by. It'll help your revenue position.
Alan - July 22, 2005 2:27 PM
Well, sure that is reasonable. I also won't be played for a fool. One guy on Banks tells me a decade ago or more that he is from Nova Scotia and needs to get home. I say - oh, yes, where? He says nothing. And so he received. Hence my support of the long-timers.