White Lie
So I was walking back home and there was this guy sitting on the sidewalk. As I passed by, he asked for some spare change. I told him I didn’t have any cash.
This was a lie. I had a $5 bill.
Under normal circumstances, I’d gladly have given him the cash, but something changed. Last month, after some calculation, I realized how much I’ve been giving away. Not that generosity is bad; however, it’s really added up.
At 31 years old, I don’t have much to show for financially, except for some retirement savings and enough savings to survive for a few months should I immediately lose my job. I still even have credit card debt (the cards are now stashed behind the potatoes instead of the wallet, so at least they’re not being used). I need to be stingier and think of my own welfare as well.
At the same time, I still feel badly because it’s likely that guy needed a few bucks more than me.
If you’re going to be giving money away, at least make sure you’re giving away to something reportable so you can deduct it on taxes.
Reply to AllenShame on you!
Reply to CMoBIt is perfectly reasonable to pick a charity that helps homeless folks and give them your donations.
What one person can do with 5 bucks a good shelter or organization can leverage into matching funds and double their money or more.
Also, don’t forget that many homeless people have an addiction and that 5 bucks might turn into a couple pints of cheap vodka.
I’ve had a homeless family member, worked as a property manager for an SRO for formerly homeless men, and one of my employees was formerly homeless.
Give to the organizations and the shelters, both money and time.
Reply to gorckatDon’t be such a whineypants.
Reply to The MascotLooking back, don’t know why I posted this. Still, thanks for the feedback.
Reply to DonnieYou should give me your credit cards. I will put them to good use fo sho.
Reply to Caroline :)You can’t. Um, because they’re maxed out. Don’t ask how I know, and it’s not because I already used them.
Reply to The Mascot