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04/24/2005: "Trip to Circle K / Getting coffee before stump dig"

Typically when I encounter homeless people or money beggars here in Phoenix they can at times seem undeserving. Mostly because of their aggresive behavior, dressed way to well for being homeless, or there are visible signs of drug use. I stopped at Circle K before this stump dig and just met a guy that I think was the most desperate looking guy I hvae seen for a while. First of all, one whole side of his back jeans leg was completely brown and yellow. I think he probably had an accident or slept in some garbage. Second his head had a giant cut and there was a nice layer of grime all over his skin.
He called out to me after I exited the store deep in thought as to why they were out of Hazelnut Coffee and what a drag that was. His voice was weak and asked if I could spare any change. Seeing his appearance I grabbed all that I had in the car and gave it to him. There were alot of pennys but some silver. He said he really appreciated it. I felt bad because I had no other cash, I asked him if he was ok, he said yes and thank you. He had trouble opening the door to the store to get in.

I felt pretty bad for this guy. Normally I think that people lead themselves to their own ends, but this guy seemed pretty sad and genuine. I am just glad that my life is as good as it is.

I did think of something else pretty strange. As a society we are going towards electronic barter, credit cards, debit, etc. I know point of arrival is far away in the future, but I hardly ever have cash on me now. At times there is no need for it. Something to think about when you see these futuristic movies, how do they account for that? Maybe beggars will have to have a credit card terminal now.