I pulled into a small truckstop in Florida a couple of nights ago. The air was warm and humid, not hot. I parked my rig and stepped out, stretching after several hours in the driver's seat, while I walked towards the building. I was stopped by two men, one about my age I guessed, and one several years older.
The younger of the two addressed me, saying he and his father, pointing to the older man, were from New Orleans and were trying to get back home. After an elaborate and lengthy story he told me he just wanted to get his father something to eat. I have to say after eyeing the older man he didn't look very healthy.
I told the man I had no money to give them (which was true as I hadn't cashed my comcheck yet) and walked inside. After cashing my check I walked over to the KFC and ate a meal. WHile I was eating I kept thinking about the two men and decided that while they could just be local scammers, maybe, just maybe, they could really be broke and hungry. After I ate my meal I ordered a couple of sandwiches to go.
Walking back across the lot I handed the sack to the older man and said "here ya go, have a sandwich" and indicated that I had one for each of them. The younger man's expression was one of true gratitude (or he was an Academy Award actor) and he shook my hand.
It was a small thing, but it made me feel good. I've been down and out, especially last year when I was basically an invalid who depended on others for everything, and it was nice to be able to do something for someone else.
Giving is definately better than receiving.