Quote:
Originally Posted by bagboy
I think more than likely they we're not what the OP thought. What I will vigorously disagree with is the sheltered and privileged description of those of us who are Villagers. My wife and I worked hard and made many sacrifices throughout our lifetime in order to be able to afford the retired lifestyle we now enjoy. Over the years we have donated to many organizations and charities, and helped out a relative and friend or two along the way.
We both come from tough neighborhoods, but hard working blue collar neighborhoods. If we couldn't work for and pay for it, we did without. Never, and I mean never would we beg, borrow, or steal anything from anyone. So no, we are not privileged and for darned sure not sheltered. Ninety nine out of one hundred help me requests on the streets are at the very least shady.
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Well said bagboy. I have no issues with people giving especially when the heart strings are being tugged. However, I would prefer to give to those who are clearly in need but will not reach for a hand out due to pride. Randon acts of kindness are wonderful and nothing makes me feel better than to have participated in that on a number of occasions in my lifetime. However, nothing makes me feel worse than feeling like I have just been fleeced.
No one can say with certainty if this was a scam but it does have all the the earmarks of being such. Scammers are like seagulls and as long as we keep feeding them they will keep coming back.
If you don't care if you are being fleeced and still feel good that you have given then I say knock yourself out.