Last week, while walking back to my car with a load of groceries, I was approached by a woman. She told me that she just got an apartment behind the grocery store and a new job, but didn't have any money yet to buy food. She asked if she could have some money. I told her that I don't carry cash on me and I quickly walked to my car. I felt bad, but my mama told me to not talk to strangers, and usually it's a scam to grab your wallet while you are getting them change.
Yesterday, while IN the same grocery store, I was approached by a man who GAVE ME THE SAME EXACT STORY. Ok, what's the odds of this happening twice? I told him that someone approached me last week with the same story and he quickly left. I found a manager and told him the story and he apologized and told me to tell someone next time and they will kick them out. I thanked him and told him that I just wanted to make them aware that this scam was going on there (it's a nice store in a fairly nice area).
While feeling bad the first time, I'm glad I listened to instincts (and mom) and not trust the person. It actually makes me sad to think that people have to resort to doing such things and I hope that we don't have to start worrying about being approached, or robbed going to a trusted neighborhood just to get groceries. I don't live in a big crazy city like Chicago to avoid such encounters.
Am I making a point here? Not really. I just wish that instead of holding out their hand (and scamming), people would find their self worth and make something of themselves!
Hey there. Thanks for visiting Steadfast. YOu're always welcome.
ReplyDeleteI've been approached in the parking lot of the grocery store too. I NEVER give money, but I did hand over a package of hamburger. These things happen. "The poor we will always have with us."
Rosemary
I always feel so bad when people approach me but I know that I need to exercise caution as well...well said. Great post!
ReplyDeleteI always have such mixed feelings - many people who are asking for money are mentally ill. But it makes me felt unsafe, so I always say no and move on.
ReplyDeleteThat's always an awkward situation, especially because these days you can't tell if people are lying or truly in need. I would've done the same thing! I'm a new follower from MBC :)
ReplyDeleteCheers,
Tess
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