There is this homeless man that I've seen in the same part of town for over 5 years now...

He is missing his lower right leg, and right hand, is always in a wheel chair.

Many times I've stopped to talk with him and have learned so much about him. I've grown to really have a soft spot in my heart for him...

There is a McDonald's right down the street from where he always is, so many times I've stopped to get him breakfast/lunch/dinner - I've taken blankets to him and tried my best to get him to allow me to help him get shelter, or call a family member, anything. He is very stubborn and insists he's just fine where he is.

Earlier today I had to drive across town for a business meeting. Knowing I would be going right by where he always is I stopped to buy him McDonald's.... -- when he saw me at first he was all smiles, telling me "God bless you" as he always does and thanking me a lot.

As I was turning to head back to my car he said my name so I turned to see what he needed...

He then said to me that he appreciates the food, but could I please mix it up some and stop bringing him McDonald's all the time...He was laughing when he said it - but he seemed very serious too.

I just smiled and walked to my car.

My 'initial reaction' was what the hell???

Now I'm not so sure how to feel about it...-- it's tough because many people in my life have always teased me relentlessly about being overly giving to people like this man; but I've always just felt it's the right way to be.

Tonight though..., I don't know...it just kind of stings.

How would you feel?



(*McDonald's is the only place close to where he is - there is nothing else within 15 miles probably)

Well since you already have been doing generous things for him, it's kind of hard to stop now..and I don't believe he has the right to say anything like that, because where would he be without all your help? I would just go with your gut, if he doesn't like the way you help him then why should you continue? Beggers can't be choosers.

You have a great heart. A quality many claim they have but very few actually do truly possess.

May you continue to talk to him. I think many homeless people just need that. Someone to talk to.

All the best

next time bring him your left overs from dinner

well if thats whats close then stick with that,or just bring him something b4 u get there..I can see how it would hurt..If hes hungry it should not matter..Right.and also I guess I might not want to put him in my car and travel,If ya dont feel safe..his approach needs work...but great for you & what you have done...you never had to stop & help once le alone several times..truely god bless you...

I could understand eating the same food continuously can get tiring...but I'd be thankful for the food coming to me. I'd continue the good deed if I were you. And maybe if you do cook or bake something, you can bring him a Tupperware. But beggars can't be choosy.

It's just not something I've ever experienced..., most of the time people are just thankful, and it feels good to help out...

I suppose that's selfish of me in a way, because many times even though it benefits them in one way, I get just as much from it as they do.

Like talking with them, hearing their stories...helps me get through tough times in my own life. Who am I to ever feel life isn't fair? That's what I get from it...


--- Taking left overs is a good idea; but it wouldn't be as warm then...he isn't near where I live.

just had a thought...

Maybe I could convince the nearest pizza place to deliver to him...He's always at the same intersection...hmmmm...

Better make sure I found out what toppings he likes first though!! ha

Grumpy old man! ;)

if Mcdonalds is the closest place..then processed grease is probably all he gets and even a bum needs a bologna sandwich once in awhile

i think anything you give is enough! pizza delivery might not take it to him...

i agree with others saying take him some leftovers or a brown bag lunch...he is at others mercy for what he gets...

if he complains over left overs, i'd be inclined to cut my losses and move on to someone else that is needy...

you are a sweetheart tho..

Brown bag lunch is a good idea...- I'll try that next time...usually he pops in my head as I'm driving and realize I'll be near his intersection. After today though I'll be thinking ahead about this now, so yea -- he'll get pb&j, fruit, chips, water and some cookies.

THEN if he asks for McDonald's I'm taking his wheelchair ;)


((totally kidding there, ha))

If he refuses shelter then he is probably has some mental problems. Most street people do. Homeless people without mental problems usually use shelters.

He probably doesn't get to interact with people in a normal social way like we do. He probably has little concept of what proper manners are and he probably has few social skills.

I use to volunteer in a homeless shelter while in High School. I was shocked at the way the street people acted at first but then later I realized they usually didn't know they were being rude. Many have no social skills.

I bet he didn't even know what he said or realize how it sounded.

You can't judge him by normal civilized standards. He lives in a different world.


edit
In the shelter I worked in we were told never to feed homeless people on the street. It keeps them from going to the shelters to get proper help and it encourages them to live on the street where they don't get help and where they are exposed to the elements and crime. ....but I still do sometimes.

Funny how people complain with their mouth full.

Very true, you are right... I have been around many homeless people on the strees and in shelters and yes, many times they are quite 'different' in manners.

Although I am quite a bit older than you,
(I think), you helped to remind me of something I needed to be reminded of -- Thank you for that.