#151: What About the Unfortunate?

There has been a lot in the news today about premier professional golfer Tiger Woods. He allegedly crashed a car into a fire hydrant and then a tree and had to be taken to a hospital to be treated for his injuries. One reporter asked viewers to pray for Woods' recovery.

I admit that Woods is in a class by himself in the golfing world and that his skills award him with millions of dollars in earnings each year. And as a fellow human he deserves positive thoughts and prayers.

But what about the millions of people who have hit bottom and have nowhere to turn for help? They have no money, no food, sometimes no home. They don't qualify for unemployment assistance or food stamps or other help. They have reached the end of their rope and feel as if they can no longer hold on. Forget eye and dental exams, unless they are fortunate enough to get on a free clinic's long waiting list. Soup kitchens? They're a valuable community tool for those able to get there, who have money for gas for their car, if they have a car or bus fare.

Their poverty is palpable. Their futility can be seen in their worn out facial expressions and in the slump of their shoulders. No money, no telephone, no friends or family able to help. They worry as much about food for their pets as for themselves. Often, their pet dog or cat is their only companion and as such provide essential emotional support.

People find themselves doing unimaginable things they wouldn't consider in better times, but they're desperate.

The problems facing many people could be documented further. The point here is that, yes, prayers and good thoughts should go out to Tiger Woods, but what about all of the people who don't have his millions of dollars and his fame?

Will we also pray for them?