In response to Benjamin T. King’s article headlined “Out of gas, she said, and just standing here hoping ” (Monitor Opinion, Dec. 7): I am happy to note that at the end of his message, King acknowledged “recognizing she existed was better than pretending she wasn’t there.”
We all should acknowledge that there are many, many people in a similar situation and we shouldn’t degrade them for asking for gas money (when no cars are around). Would we rather be approached and asked for a dollar because “I’m staving” or “I’m homeless.” Would this make it more likely to receive?
King also eludes to the supposition that she is possibly a drug user because of a partner’s observation a year ago. We cannot know or pretend to know the circumstances that contribute to a person’s homelessness, or need for “a dollar.”
If we are to love our neighbor as we love ourselves, we have to acknowledge that she/he/them are our neighbors.
During trying times we can help our neighbor by contributing to the Concord Coalition to End Homelessness, the Friendly Kitchen, and the N.H. Food Bank. And please give more than a dollar.
ANDY HAMPTON
Chichester