The Secret Life of the Roadside Pauper
Ever been feeling especially generous and handed the man on the corner a couple of dollars, or in some cases, a beer? Now, isn’t that presumptuous! Most of the time these pedestrians are greeted with averted eyes or a closed window. Maybe we busy ourselves with the radio dial or look at our cellphone to avoid eye-contact with the man flying a cardboard sign. It’s only natural. Who might that person be, and what have they done to stoop that low? Suppose they could be possible sex offenders, unable to get a job. Maybe they’re addicts, alcoholics, or just plain lazy? Or, perhaps they are a practicing Brahmin, simply taking up alms. Maybe they are between jobs. Hell, maybe they’re rich! The only thing we can say for sure, without really getting to know them, is that they are there for our charity. And why not? Sometimes people feel a need to be charitable. Even them. Perhaps, in some ways, we should thank them… Or maybe that is going too far? About a year ago I decided to s...