I was impressed today…

It’s so funny and sometimes sad to see some people who could do something for themselves, but instead resort to begging for alms daily, using their conditions as an excuse. For some, we understand if they are in such a situation, but how about those who have complete hands and legs but still are too lazy to work because they are deaf and dumb?

That’s not good because some do not let their conditions define their lives or survival. This contrast is what really got me thinking today.

I remember a short clip I watched of a lady with one leg and a walking stick, who was selling soft drinks placed on her head around the street, and because of this, people kept buying from her, even those who weren’t interested, but to encourage her. Her determination alone was inspiring, reminding me of how much people appreciate genuine effort.

But then you’d see some of them sitting by the roadside every day begging for alms when they could at least do something, even a little, to earn some income. Sometimes, they might not even receive help from others because everyone is looking for how to sort themselves out for daily survival.

I pity people like this and would be more willing to help those in similar conditions. They can still feed themselves with what they earn daily, and yes, when I find them, I try to help encourage them. Their courage deserves recognition.

As we went out today, I took along my fetcher (one I used to draw water from the well), which was leaking badly and needed fixing. I found a shoe repairer by the roadside, and when I approached him, his friend, who sat with him, explained that he couldn’t speak or hear. I thought it was a joke at first, but when he proved it, I was surprised it was true.

To make matters worse, his friend could only communicate in his native language and did not understand English; perhaps he could make a sign for him. So communication seemed almost impossible at first. But the guy did something surprising, which I believe he has been doing for a long time with every customer that comes his way.

He took out a pen and wrote on his hand, and I did the same. I could see he is educated because his English were correct. I was amazed that not only was he deaf and dumb, but he could write in English correctly.

As we talked about the price he would be getting for his service, though I was moved by the fact that he is not like other people who would go around with a placard written on it, their condition and asking for help, but he decided to make use of his skill to earn money for himself. His dignity and self-respect were clear in the way he worked.

I told my sister that for people like him, I would be willing to pay more than for their service as a way to encourage them because they never allowed their conditions to define them, not even in this present harsh economy everyone has found themselves in, where it is the survival of the fittest. People like him truly deserve to be supported and celebrated.

_{Image is mine}