We’ve all heard and seen fake moms begging on streets corners, for cash to buy food for their imaginary children. The reverse is when a 10-year old kid approaches you on a sidewalk or, more often, in a mall.
You are walking with your girlfriend or boyfriend and this kid pulls your sleeve. “Sorry, could you please help me? It is my parents’ anniversary on Monday and I would like to buy them a gift. I have only 7 dollars so far and I think I could really make them a nice surprise if I had a few more dollars. If you have a couple that you could share would be great…if not, that’s okay…Thank you!”
Your partner might pull an “Awww…” and that’s when you stick your hand into your pockets or purse and give him your change…thinking it’s for a good cause.
How to avoid: well, it’s a difficult one because it’s just a little kid – so just think of the damage you’re doing to his character and harden your heart.