Blind beggars through the "eye" of the blind.

In the blind community the debate goes on.  Should we accept the blind beggar or drive him/her off the streets? 

Some of us declare that the beggar makes such a negative statement that potential employers will see that image whenever one of us applies for a job, and will turn us away. 

Others feel that the blind beggar disturbs us because none of us are that far removed from taking to the streets ourselves.  And some of us just like to mess in other people's lives. 

A friend of mine drove a beer truck for a living.  He became converted to a fundamental church and when his new associates learned what he did for a living they began to criticize him and to tell him that he was giving them all a black eye and nothing would do but what he must find a more appropriate job.  Just as an aside, since Jesus turned water into wine I could not see their point, but anyway that was how they saw it.  My friend complained to me that it was putting him in a very tough place.  But being a practical man and having a family to care for, he continued driving the beer truck and told his critics that it gave him the golden opportunity to Witness before folks who were usually overlooked. 

But my point is, if this blind beggar tells you that begging is his job, then my only question would be, "Do you have a business license, and do you pay your proper taxes?"  I've known blind street beggars who made better money than I ever made. 

Most of us don't get excited or offended over the bell ringers at Christmas time.  And we all have tolerated a wide range of beggars, from the door knockers peddling their religion and asking for donations, to beggars slipping into our homes through our mail boxes.  So is it because the beggar is blind that we are highly offended?  Is it a personal affront?  Would it help if I told you that no beggar will impact you one little bit.  You are already covered by the General Blind Stereotype.  That stereotype includes you, me  and the blind beggar alike.  Getting him off the street will not change anything except for his income. 

 

Curious Carl