I didnt know where to put this... selfish or not? (Long Post)

[Slim]

It is a little frustrating that so many people have such strong opinions about pan handlers and the homeless with out knowing very much about the population. My wife has worked with the homeless for the last six years and let me tell you what most of them has been through would crush most any person.

I've traveled the world in defense of this country, and I've seen, hung out with, shared beer and bread with panhandlers and homeless in at least 40 different countries and in well over 30 cities in our own country. I've dealt with burnouts, lockouts, walkouts, mentally ill and far, far too many veterans of our military. In my own experience, about 30% of those living under the stars have little to no control over their situation due to mental illness of some variety, or because of a physical malady. That leaves the other 70%, who in my opinion, are just living out a form of learned helplessness. A condition that handouts and free meals tend to exacerbate.

Yes, my opinion is strong. If that strength frustrates you, I won't say I'm sorry, but I will feel sorry for you that you are so easily frustrated.

Let's keep this about a kid who wants a snake.

Ummm, the kid is the one who opened up the debate in the first place...

See I don't necessarily think that way. I feel like asking for money is just that, asking. You aren't saying "I deserve this", but rather "if you could/want to give that'd be awesome".

Of course you don't