Hacker News new | ask | show | jobs
by dueprocess 4378 days ago
Here is what I do: I ALWAYS give, and I NEVER judge.
2 comments

I was really ashamed after I read your answer. I'm still not 100% sure that's the spirit I'm willing to adopt, but there is something to it that feels right. I will think about it.
It's not my duty but helping someone in need, someone who asks you for help, is our duty. Just like you help a tourist. You help because you can.
What! It isn't your civic duty t give random strangers money.
What about after you give them money and they look down at their hand like "WTF? That's it?" and walk away disgusted (or just stare at you)? Do you judge then?

I'm not making this up to be combative. I use to carry a bunch of coins in a quickly accessible pocket just to give to anyone who asks because I hate having to internally debate it every time. The passive beggars are always fine, but I've had frustrating experiences with the active ones (especially the drunk and mentally disturbed).