So many situations have had me thinking lately. And much of it has to do with treating others with dignity.
One practical way I want to model this in our family’s life is through Blessing Bags. I first read about the idea on this blog. The ideas are similar: we don’t know all of what those living on the street are dealing with. Because of that, individuals giving out money is not always best. (However, if that is what God prompts you to do, it would seem good to listen to that.)
However, acknowledging them as humans made in the image of God seems imperative. I know a friend who has simply made it a point to look everyone she meets on the street in the eye. Dignity. Conversation if it seems desired by both parties. But at least dignity.
If going another step is on your radar, both of the above blog posts have great ideas for what to keep in your car. Because another way to show dignity is acknowledging basic human needs. I love that the toiletry items and socks are often more important than food items. I would think in the winter warm shoes would be a need as well.
Our family has yet to sit down and make this a project. I keep waiting for the right time, but that does not seem to be the best plan. So instead, I’ve been trying to keep it on my radar every time I go to the store. Last time at Costco I bought an extra box of those individually wrapped peanut butter crackers. They will stay in my car. The next time I might have a few extra dollars of cash on hand and I can pick up some travel-sized toiletries or make sure to snag a clearance package of kid or adult socks I see. Plus, if I dig around, I’m sure we already have some of these items at home and won’t be using them ourselves.
Instead of waiting for all the conditions to be right, or the perfect lump sum to spend on this project, I’m going to grab what I can, where I can, when I can. It frees me from my perfectionistic tendencies and still allows me to bless and give dignity to anyone I might come across. After processing through some example stories of why beautiful people may be in need, I want to share any joy and light I can.
Have you heard of this before? Ever tried being prepared in this way? Any tips for doing this on a budget or in baby steps?