When it comes to helping people out, do you generally resist the idea because....?

Question

You're at a loss about how to go about it, don't know how much help you can offer, or are you afraid because it might leave you in a sticky situation which could've been better resolved--had you held out? (Not because of selfishness, but more of personal preservation.)

I'm just wondering about this--because it suddenly occurred to me--partly because I get the feeling that even though this country of ours is generous--there are some out there whom feel that people who are in some kind of trouble (either emotionally or financially) should be left to fend for themselves; regardless of the situation.

Why? Why do we do this?

Answer 1

I only resist when:

(financially) I'm in trouble myself and can't afford to help, or if I'm sure the person won't use the money properly. If someone's sleeping on the street with a bottle of strong alcohol, why would I give them money? I'd rather give them a left-over sandwich, it'll be better use to them! Besides, I've lent money to "friends" before and not heard from them since (never got the money back either) so I'd rather not do that anymore.

(emotionally) I'm so deep down in the dumps that I feel unable to help another person out without pulling them further down to where I am. The rest of the time... I've been told I'm a pretty good listener.

Answer 2

i think people resist because they are needy or close to being needy themselves...

Answer 3

Its not WE . Its those BIG boys (The GOVERNMENT) who doesn't care what inside the box (US) only whats outside the box.

Answer 4

Because it is frequently hard to predict whether our actions will, or will not be beneficial in the long term.

I have helped people who used it as a chance to turn themselves around and I have helped people who never corrected the issues they had.  

I figure that I will always give somebody a chance - then watch them to see what they do with that chance.

Answer 5

I dont mind helping others, as long as it will be beneficial to the cause...and maybe to me as well. Because what ever you give... life has a way of giving it back to you, maybe not when your expecting it ..but, in time youll know.

Answer 6

I help whenever and in whatever way I can. I have limited financial ability to help, but in any other way. Until they begin using me, like expecting me to drop everything and drive tham somewhere whenever they want.

Answer 7

It's kind of sad. I think most people will give to a charity because it helps them feel good. but when it comes to a personal thing, they'd rather not get involved. I try to help people out as much as I can. With me not working and my wife on limited hours, we are in a very tight situation. I wish I was rich and could help out as many people as I can.

I hate to think of anyone being in that dire of straights, but it happens. I personally don't like asking for help. Call it pride.

We americans talk a good game. when it comes down to it, our actions don't back up our words.