Social responsibility and compassion

[Guest guest]

Hi,

 

I have a dilemma about feeding beggars. I normally

do not give money to beggars who are able (young).

Somehow I feel sorry for old people on the street and sometimes give

a small amount to them reluctantly. I think most of us may have

enough resources to pay for a meal. But I don't want to perpetuate their

behavior (drinking, laziness etc.,) of dependence on others.

 

Let us say that nobody feeds him that day and he goes to

bed hungry. Even though I had the means and opportunity to feed him and I

choose not to do because of my beliefs and ideology.

In that case am I not responsible for him going to bed

hungry that day?

 

One can argue that his current situation (karma) is his own

making and we need not feel responsible. But I am

unable to accept that argument. What if it was a

genuine need? Where does your social responsibility

end and compassion begin?

 

Please share your thoughts.

 

--

Sampath