The Guy in the Wheelchair…
As I’ve said before, I live in a poor neighborhood. There is a lot of foot traffic and I think it is because some of these people just can’t afford cars. There is this guy in a wheelchair and he has visited me several times before asking for money. He was pacing almost frantically up and down the streets of my neighborhood stopping at various houses. Today, I asked him just what he needed with the money. I suspected beer.
“I just want to roll down to the convenience store and buy me some cigarettes,” he told me honestly.
“Why didn’t you tell me that before?” I asked. “I’ve got some cigarettes and can help you with that problem.”
Dad would just die as he pays for my cigarettes and they are expensive. I gave the fellow two packs of Marlboro Reds and he immediately lit up not wasting any time. You could visibly see his demeanor change right in front of my eyes as he began to relax.
“How did you get to be paralyzed if you don’t mind me asking you sir?” I asked.
“Bad motorcycle accident,” he replied. “A car hit me.”
I live in a very interesting neighborhood it seems. It keeps Maggie busy guarding the house. Honestly? I felt terrible for giving those cigarettes away. I just can’t afford it and it may make a big difference at the end of the week when I will run low on smokes. I only get a carton a week. Things like this just pique my social anxieties as well. I don’t want to fool with strange people at my front door. I abhor solicitations like that. It is imposing and rude in my mind. I would never, ever do it personally.
8 comments:
At least you got out there and talked to him. I would've hidden in the house until he went away. I hide inside from the mailman, UPS guy, the neighbor's kids selling wrapping paper, Jehovah's Witnesses...etc, etc.
And very generous of you to share your cigs. When I smoked my OCD was so strong I couldn't even bear to give up one. Because you never knew when you might run out and not be able to buy anymore.
I hate standing downtown or at the bus stop at the Mall of America. If you dare to light up a cigarette, at least 2 people (sometimes more) will ask for one. It doesn't sound like much but, after awhile, those $0.25 cigarettes start to add up and I'm absolutely terrible at just saying "Sorry, no."
Well Sweet Pea, it's called pay it forward. Hopefully, one day he will help out someone else. Don't be too hard on yourself.
I just wanted to add ONE more comment tonight, I promise I won't bug you anymore...haha.
Blog as much as you feel like it. You're an excellent writer and story teller and I enjoy it so much.
There is that kind heart leading you around again! I think I would much rather see that kind heart in charge than some mean old selfish jerk!
You knew the position the guy was in and you helped him out. So, you could force yourself to skip 3 cigarettes every day - and it will help make up for the loss. Giving to someone else when you don't have much yourself is really a wonderful way to share.
I like that you do nice things for other people!
Your fan,
Grannie
I'm glad I don't smoke anymore. First of all, a pack is $10.50 here in the city...and every time you go out, someone asks for one. And, because cigs are so high, they are selling them in the streets like drugs. They get cartons from down south and walk around saying, "Newports, Newports $5. But don't let them get caught. You get locked up. Why, it I am outside and someone says "I'll give you a quarter for a cigarette," and I give it, I'll get taken in and booked.
Mary
you did a very nice thing today and im sure he will be back , im also sure he needs a friend to talk to . you might be short of cigs now but your not short of niceness. have a good day :)
It was kind of you to give the guy cigarettes..its terrible to really need one, but you gave him 2packets how generous are you !!....but have you thought of what else was proved to you today ????..That Car acccidents can cause serious injuries and disable some poor Soul for a lifetime.!!!..maybe that will help you to help George realise things when he does come home...I do hope Mrs florene is ok..and also that George doesn't get too long a sentence..but JUST long enough to ensure that he doesn't drink & drive again...I feel sure you will be rewarded in some way for your generosity to this guy...but it should make you feel good knowing you have done such a kindness...bless you Andrew..hugs Joy
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