I've already got a bit of a guilty conscience (and I really don't know why?).  Taking a few bus rides most everyday, there is always at least one sad story coming on the bus, handing out cards or whatnot, and asking for money.  I feel like a bad person when I don't give out any cash (most times).  Or the hungry kids on walking street of Ciudad Vieja - but this situation is a bit different.  They are addicted to what they call "pasta" here, and do not use the money for food, but rather their next hit that lasts for hours and deteriorates their teeth as well.  The drug is the remnants and waste material of cocaine.  And it is wreaking havoc on part of the younger population - but that is another story.

But after a month of going through this, but also helping out the community in other ways, with other individuals, I am trying to come to terms with not handing out more often.  Sometimes I do, sometimes I don't, but everytime I don't I feel a bit ashamed.  Any thoughts on this one?  This could get interesting and I am welcome to all types of comments of course...I think I can take it (says the guilty conscience).