A young man came to the door trying to sell some goods. He was newly out of prison and now trying to make a living. Dad briefly talked to him before he left. The young man also wanted to chat, but Dad was busy.
Why did this make me sad?
The knowledge that I in my affluent state can help him financially and by having a chat but didn’t. I am sad that as a young person he faces the challenges he does. I am sad at his misfortune and that there is not more I could do.
What would I have done in Dads position?
I would have chatted to him, and if he had impressed my I would have brought the goods.
What is the other side?
Dad made the point of risk. Is he trying to plan another crime e.g., a house robbery? Is he a risk to my security now or in the future? You cannot be sure so be safe.
Its about balancing the desire and ability to be kind with the need for protection and self-preservation.
Do I think he was a risk in this case?
No.
What can I learn?
Keep the idea of risk and precaution in my mind but my go to reaction should be one of kindness. Not weakness but kindness.
To be kind costs nothing.
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