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Thread Owner
Just today as I was coming out of Best Buy, I spotted a man standing beside the sidewalk. He was dresses in camo and was standing leaning on a cane. He was holding a cardboard sign which read, "Vietnam veteran disabled in need of money," Normally I see people standing there that are able to work, but just begging for money, but this was different, he actually looked the part. I had already passed him when my wife said "he looks like he needs money, and she is less proned to give handouts than I. This was like a wakeup call, as I turned around to go back, she started digging In her purse. Since we had already been shopping, we only had 8 dollars between us. As I pulled up to him he tried to stand straight and tall but was unable to. I handed him the money and said "thank you sir for your service." He said ,"I would do it all over again except that I have been shot 22 times, one leg amputated and the other shot up badly. He seemed most appreciative as I handed him the money and as I started to drive away he said, " God Bless You." It is hard to describe what I was feeling as I drove away, sympathy for sure, but also some satisfaction that I could help out a veteran, and also remorse for his predicament. I am sure there are many such veterans out there that need a helping hand, struggling to make ends meet. I made a promise to myself, not only this holiday season, but everyday to show a little more kindness to people and be less judgemental. Unless we have walked in their shoes it is hard to know their pains, sufferings and trials. I am thankful for the freedom these vets have allowed us to enjoy and proud of their service to our country, The greatest on earth. Good Luck. rockhound
