Where is Our Moral Compass ?

I saw a young man in his late 20’s to early 30’s with a little boy, probably 10 years old walk towards me. I quickened my pace to “safety”.

Give me something to eat. I am from a homeless shelter and I am hungry.

He shouted from the distance.

I felt a wave of remorse as I scurried away. Why did I react like that to a simple plea for help? Have I such little trust in my fellow humans? Why was I scared of this man, who was seemingly harmless?

“Maybe he had a concealed weapon” (this was my sick mind justifying my action).

“You really can’t trust people these days” (my sick mind again).

“He could have robbed me” …

Of what? My ID card? Keys to my apartment? The few cereal bars I did not really want?

“Maybe I should have stopped for a few seconds” ……” but it was dark.”

I have gone back and forth in my mind, debating with myself, wondering if my reaction was normal or if I had been a bit paranoid. That said, if I had the opportunity, would I stop by that time of the day? I wish I could say yes, but I honestly don’t know and this saddens me.

Tags:life reflection truth