Recently I undertook a journey through what has now been classified as a very clean town by some or other joker at Ekurhuleni.
Driving along Elston Avenue, heading towards the CBD, I was confronted by filthy pavements, unkempt homes and, to crown it all, I was amazed to see how many prostitutes and their pimps ply their age old trade openly, without fear.
On the corner of Bunyan Street and Kemston Avenue, I was confronted by two deadbeat characters, rattling tins at my window, looking for a handout.
At the next set of lights, I found a juggler, with a couple of tennis balls, performing a couple of tricks … and getting totally pissed off that I did not acknowledge him or give him money.
On the opposite side of the street a young man stood with an empty plastic bag, rubbing his tummy, indicating that he had a need.
On the corner of Fifth Avenue and Great North Road, the intersection is monopolised by two perfectly healthy looking individuals, tins in hand, walking up and down and looking for handouts.
Arriving at the shopping centre, I was accosted by someone who wanted to wash my car, and, immediately thereafter, the obligatory car guard.
I now need to review my budget and, because I am sensitive to the plight of those less fortunate than myself, I feel that I should give to all those individuals.
But how much should one give, as this demand is incessant, day in and day out?
Perhaps other readers should come forward and advise me. Is there a rule of thumb?
Some of the poorest countries on earth have not degenerated to these levels of begging, and yet South Africa is a relatively rich country.
A sad state of affairs indeed.
