Since we've been in Changsha I've been faced with beggars on almost a daily basis, and I wasn't sure how I could best help these people. Giving money might actually ultimately not be so helpful, and spending time might actually not be so wanted.
I always try to engage with beggars as if they are acceptable and valuable human beings by making eye contact, not gawking, saying hello, chatting politely, sharing the joy of Titus's smile, etc. A few weeks ago Titus and I were approached by a elderly woman begging for money. I told her that I would not give her money, but I endearingly called her Grandmother, encouraged her to make Titus smile, and chatted with her. She was delighted! I've never seen a beggar smile before: she was glowing! And as we parted, she did not persist in begging (as is usually the case). She seemed satisfied, as if she had received a better gift that a little money.
The problem is unresolved. As long as there are beggars and impoverished people, corruption and suffering, it will remain unresolved. I do know that I'm called to uplift these people. I'm called to have compassion. I'm called to heed the Father's direction on a case-by-case basis.
Rachel
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