This afternoon I found myself in a parking lot outside a popular store that we ladies love. As I looked up I saw a young woman approaching the car to my left. She then turned to me and asked if I would give something towards a taxi ride. Her explanation was that she was unable to get her mom, and needed to get up the road. Seemed innocent enough to me, so I helped a little towards the ride. As she walked away the woman from the other car came to me. She was concerned that we had been handled, but what I said to her is what I believe. "You opened your heart, and your wallet, to help a person who said she was in need." I told her that she and I had done our part, and if here was any misleading going on, it was not on us. We did not judge, but instead offered what we could. At the end of the conversation she walked away with a smile.
I want to be a person who speaks truth in grace, sees the situation for what it is, and instead of judging and lashing out, offers love, understanding, and patience.
We can only hope that this young woman spoke truth, and that she will remember reaching out to strangers who did not turn her way. But, at the end of the day it is more about how we reacted and less about her.