Encouragement

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One morning on my way to work, I stopped to fill my car with gas. Suddenly, a black truck pulled up next to the pump behind me. A young man, my guess in his twenties, got out of the truck and headed my way.

Because I live in a big city, I'm used to having disadvantaged people approach me from time to time while getting gas or even while leaving a convenience store. But this was different. At first, I assumed he was wanting directions until he asked for money.

"Hey, man. I just coasted in from the highway and need a few dollars for some gas. I was wondering if you could help me."

He took out his wallet and showed me how empty it was. He then said, "See? I was with this girl, and I think she may have stolen my money and credit cards. I'm not sure."

Most people, who are in dire straits, have a hard-luck story to tell. I didn't believe him, of course, but I did feel sorry for him. He was sincere. But there was something else about him.

I gave him a couple of dollars which he gladly took. As I did this, I paused for a few minutes and looked at him. What he said next startled me.

"What's the matter, haven't you ever stared addiction in the face?"

I had to think about that for a moment. Then, I replied, "Yes I have, and it's always sad when I see it."

I knew this young man's desperate need for help went well beyond the two dollars I gave him. His question made me think, though, how some people struggle with addictions. And addictions usually have only one thing in common: destroying what otherwise could be a rewarding life.

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