Yesterday I was putting gas in my car and a man rolled up to me at the pump; he was in a wheel chair and I knew what was coming next. He asked for money, of course. But God tugged on my heart and instead of reacting, I stopped and just looked his way and asked, so what’s your story? I think I took him by surprise but he did answer after a brief hesitation and told me that he was hit by a car several years ago and his spine was fractured in three places. He said he had some ability to walk, now, but it is painful so he is in the wheelchair most of the day. I expressed by regret for what he had been through but asked if he was living somewhere and why did he need money – didn’t he have family to help or a provision of some kind? Well, through our conversation I saw that, really, he just wanted someone to listen. I did give him the little cash I had, he said thanks, very sincerely and was also grateful for the conversation. I also told him where he could get some practical help with food, as the little money he has just doesn’t cover all his needs. Sometimes we just need a little compassion, and so do others.
Love really is Kind.