“Every man who begets a free act projects his personality into the infinite. If he gives a poor man a penny grudgingly, that penny pierces the poor man’s hand, falls, pierces the earth, bores holes in suns, crosses the firmament and compromises the universe…. A charitable act, an impulse of real pity sings for him the divine praises, from the time of Adam to the end of the ages; it cures the sick, consoles those in despair, calms storms, ransoms prisoners, converts the infidel and protects mankind.” -Leon Bloy

I try to carry dollar bills or gift cards for food stores with me at all times. That way, when I see that ragged face standing at the street corner withe cardboard sign, or a pile of dirty clothes with a person inside sitting near the entry to the market, I have something in my hand to drop into theirs.

My mind says “They’ll only use it for drugs!”, or “That food card will free up money for them to use for booze!” I often have harsh judgements about personal responsibility failures and scam artists grabbing instead of working. But it’s none of my business what why use the money for. I could just as easily imagine them as using it for food for their kid, or medicine they need, or to pay rent.

My job is not to judge. My job is to respond to humans in need. Moses didn’t question if his sister Miriam needed healing. Jesus never asked for a co-pay. When I have a little extra, and i meet sdneon who doesn’t have enough, it’s time to follow the Second Law of Thermodynamics and let things move from a higher level of concentration to a lower one. It’s not just solid physics, it’s righteousness.

The next time I meet someone in need, how can I do the right thing?

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Léon Bloy (11 July 1846 – 3 November 1917) was a French novelist, essayist, pamphleteer, mystic and poet, known for his influence within French Catholic circles.

Joe Laur is a father, husband, artist, builder, naturalist, consultant, and EcoKosher mashgiach. He lives with his wife Sara in western Massachusetts, where he serves as head groundskeeper and resident singer songwriter. Send him your favorite teaching quote for commentary. He can be reached at joe.laur@joelaur.com.