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“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

– Nelson Mandela

It’s around 6 to 7pm every day when I commute from work. While walking home, I pass by an overpass frequented by many commuters.

There on the sidewalks, I see him a few times a week. Sitting on the ground, his knees are tucked in his oversized shirt, grayed with grime. His skin is covered in filth, his hair curly, long, and unkempt, and his face sullen and expressionless. On his hand is a dirty plastic cup, obviously used and discarded by someone else, and he always held it outstretched in front of him. A silent beg for alms.

I drop a five-peso coin and continue my walk home.

At least once every week or two, I see him on the same spot, wearing the same clothes, and doing the same things. And I drop a five peso coin in his cup or outstretched hand.

Week after week, he gets a few coins from pedestrians. Week after week, he’s still there. How much should we give for him to afford better clothes? How much should we give for him to afford a home? How much should we give for him to earn a living?
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