This response was sent from Carmen to Jennifer, after Carmen read Jennifer’s Lenten Reflection last Wednesday.
This story really struck home with me.
More than a decade ago, my now-deceased brother, Curtis, and I had a conversation about this same situation after he had just given a panhandler $5.
“Lil Curt” felt it was his responsibility to share what God had blessed him with and not to judge; it was the receiver’s choice to do right with Curt’s gift.
Ever since then, I always have a $5 bill (and fruit) in my car tray that I share with folks asking for help. I always ask them to say a prayer for me.
I have always gotten a “thank you, God bless you” in return, and a warm feeling knowing my brother is smiling down at me from above knowing that he continues to teach his Big sister how to love unconditionally.
-Carm