The man with the sign.

I was stopped at a red light today, three cars in front of me, when I noticed a man standing on the corner with his back to me. I could see he was holding a sign. My curiousity peaked as I wondered how I could accomplish finding out what the sign in his hands said. As I sat their waiting for the light I tried my hardest not to stereotype this man on the corner.

The red light turned green, as it has countless times and as if on que the man turned to face the oncoming traffic. I could see his sign plain as day. Very clearly in big black words it read, "Single father in need...anything will help. Even prayer."

My heart broke.

My first thought: Dear God, please grant this man patience, strength and hope to find a better place in life.
My second thought: How on Earth did this man wind up in this situation?
Third: I hope his intentions aren't to take advantage of people by pulling their heart strings like he did mine.
And fourth: What can I give this man and what does he really need?

I decided prayer was best.

Part of my wishes I could do more. Another part of me wants to walk up to him, shake him and tell him there are jobs out there he just needs to try harder. Then, part of me questions how in need is he really? And then I take back these rude, judgemental thoughts and just pray he will be in a better situation soon.

Even though I passed by the man on the corner I can't help but continue thinking about him. I feel it must take a lot of courage to stand there in front of all that traffic, all those people driving by. He must be standing there for a reason. I know if all he receives is prayers, even though he may not know it, he will be receiving A LOT.

Seeing the man with the sign didn't make me feel sorry, nor did I pity him. Instead, I prayed for him and thanked the Lord for the many places (good and bad) I've been and the wonderful place I'm in now. I know we are all in the places we are for a reason. Whether or not we move from the current place....is all our choice. 

Keep loving.