I had unexpected guests knocking at my door last night. Two teenage boys asking people to subscribe to Mercury News. The reason why they were unexpected is because my apartment doesn't allow soliciting. But let me tell you what's happening next.
The one who approached me at the door was a Hispanic young man. He said that he's in this scholarship program sponsored by the Mercury News. However, to continue his scholarship, he needs to get certain number of people to subscribe with the newspaper. The fee is only $20. But it will grant the young man another semester in college. He mentioned that he had come twice in a day already; however, no one was home. So his hope was high up when he saw my apartment's light was finally on. Apparently, he's been around my apartment complex for the whole day with the list of apartment numbers who are not yet in Mercury News' subscriptions. And if you watch the news lately or live in the Bay Area, you should know that we've been having rainstorm these past few days. Especially yesterday with the wind hitting hard and adding the chill to the day. So I wonder what the young man had gone through.
On the other hand, I already have a newspaper subscription. So I don't need another one. I was just ready to tell him, "I'm sorry I can't help here." All of the sudden, words just came out of my mouth, "Hey, I don't think I will subscribe to another newspaper today. But, can I give you few dollars in return?" He said that it won't do him any good for the scholarship because it won't be recorded in the system. But I went in still and found the remaining $18.00 I have in my wallet. I gave all of them to the young man, "Sorry. You said that the fee is $20. But this is all the cash I have today. I wish you all the best." Off they were to another rainy and windy trip in the neighborhood.
I shared this story with my coworker this morning. She said, "So how does that money do him any good? You're wasting your money, girl. He won't get the scholarship with your extra $18."
As I pondered on her words, I asked God if what I did was actually helpful. Though I didn't get a chance to say this to the young man directly, I pray that, "My money can get you an umbrella to stay dry under. Or, get yourself couple cups of hot cocoa to keep you warm. Or, some food for your family at home. Or, buy some warm patches to keep your palms and feet warm. Or, get someone subscribed with the newspaper for a lesser amount to get it recorded in the system. Stay in school. Stay out of crime and drugs. Use my money wisely; even though it's only $18. God bless you!"
I know what I did was probably not the best solution. At the same time, I know that God cares for that young man; and that He will do His part to bless the young man.
May this be a blessing.
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