Charity

On the way home from work the other day, I walked into the subway station and noticed that there were kids collecting change.  While I looked for a token, I finally heard what they were saying.  The kids were collecting change, raising money for some program that gives kids breakfast.

I think there were three kids.  Each one held a container trying to collect change from all the people passing through.  From the time I stepped into the station to the time I passed the kids, I did not see a single person give them anything.

Considering it was rush hour on a weekday, a lot of people were passing through.  On top of that, this is a station in one of the busiest commercial areas in the city.  Lots of wealthy and professional people work in the area.  How come not one person is willing to spare some change?

I gave one of the kids a loonie and her response...

"Oh my god! Thank you! High five!"

So with a dollar, I helped a kid do her job, and helped whatever other kid is going to get a healthy breakfast.  Why not?

Over the last week, I've run into kids raising money quite a few times.  This kid in the subway station raising money for breakfast for needy kids.  One of my boss' kids raising money for their school.  Another little kid outside of the supermarket raising money for I can't even remember what.  I'm not rich, but in total I probably gave about $10.  It's not much, but at least I gave something.

I guess it hits a weak spot in me when it's a kid asking for donations.  After all, back then, I was one of them too: selling raffle tickets, selling chocolate, asking for sponsors, etc.  It was never easy.  So, now that I can afford to, why not?

So...since it's Thanksgiving this weekend...what am I thankful for?

Being able to give.