Brad and I both strongly believe in helping others. However, we sometimes differ on how we would like to do this. I’m for giving to organizations, like the Salvation Army or an organ donation charity. Brad is big on giving to individuals, like the panhandlers we come across so often in Las Vegas. He likes to see the face of the person he is helping. Plus, he likes to say that he always has better luck in the casino after these gifts. He knows that isn’t always true, but he likes to think positively!
In recent years we have done some compromising on this issue. I like face-to-face contact too but I prefer to know the recipients and at least a little bit about them. And because of the steep downturn in the economy we have found there is no lack of opportunities to help hard-working honest neighbors and relatives who find themselves in a financial bind through no fault of their own.
However, sometimes our compromise falls apart a bit. Last night we stopped at a Walgreens near our home. Something I needed was on sale – and saving $5 is still important to me. When we parked, I noticed a panhandler sitting on a bench outside the store. Right then I knew that this was not going to be an advantage play – probably at best a break-even bet. Brad’s good heart would trump my frugal brain.
Was I mad or upset? No, that is just one of the millions of reasons I love him.
@Joe
I guess you missed the irony of not give to an addict sitting outside Wallgreens when most people are going to Wallgreens to buy Drugs or Alcohol.
The best part of your blog is that you know how you differ with Brad but you both still can be loving and caring individuals. Especially to each other.
Thanks for that great insight, sometimes when we are married a long time we don’t reflect on it as much as we should.
I have watched you and Brad on the travel channel for many years and have always thought that you were nice people. It’s nice to know I was right all these years.Believe me it is easier to give than recieve.
Brad could be my husband’s long lost twin
Karma 🙂
If you give money to a panhandler, you are enabling an alcoholic or an addict, plain and simple. There are places to stay and food to eat for anyone who is willing to get clean and sober. Sometimes, tough love is the best option. :-\
Awwww That was your best blog yet!!
I have a boy in Haiti I sponsor and and it was hard to commit to him with so many in need here. He just won my heart though. I do still feel a little guilty. I am a true believer in giving back and I know gambling luck has nothing to do with it but I am like Brad and like to say that is why I won. I guess I really do believe in karma. Maybe we just give more when we are on a good streak.lol