Our friend recently helped build outhouses for homeless Gypsies in Romania, sensing the need to assist them in surviving their refugee squalor. The next day Bekah was a bit perplexed to find the wooden toilets gone--until noticing families huddled in the cold around fire pits made from the walls. I once watched as several families gave gifts to struggling families, an event sponsored by a youth program in Marion, Indiana called J.C.Body Shop. The kids seemed rather overjoyed, and many left protecting their gifts still in their boxes. A few weeks later I recall asking several of the teens if they enjoyed the toys, clothes and other gifts, only to learn that their parents had returned them for cash to pay for heat bills, food, and other necessities. In a few cities they have installed high-class portable toilets with rotating floors that self clean. These soapy moving floors also helped to keep the homeless from camping in these luxurious restrooms. Those reading this coming from the Christian faith are likely familiar with Jesus' sincere interest in helping the poor and being attentive to the disenfranchised, but likewise cognizant of the tension with the human condition. He said, "The poor you will always have with you."

A few years ago I gave my book, one I authored, to a student as an encouragement. He sold it to pay his bills. I once loaned my Shell gas card to a student in a desperate situation, and noticed that the expenses were more for food than gas.

We are constantly surrounded by those in need, and oftentimes our own stability (which is a good thing) causes us to miss cues of those in rather unstable situations. In San Francisco last week I overheard to tourists say, "Can you believe it? That bum just asked me for a phone card. What could he possibly need a phone card for?" I didn't see the beggar, or would have asked him. Very likely, he had a real need, a relative, or a job possibility. I couldn't help but think, “Who wouldn't need access to a phone?”

I'm aware that many times a gift of what is needed is sold or squandered on debilitating vices--but that should never keep us from staying involved in the response.

What are your thoughts?.