“You can’t help someone if they don’t want to help themselves.” This ancient adage has resonated with many people and is a poignant reminder of the challenges of extending a helping hand to those who may not be ready to receive it. Florida resident Ryan Bray found himself face-to-face with this reality as he went about his daily routine. His encounters with beggars on his way home from work were not unusual, but one Sunday a strange encounter prompted him to act.
Beggars on street corners, holding signs and sharing heart-wrenching stories, are a familiar sight in many cities. For some, desperation and a plea for help tug at the heartstrings and make them want to make a difference. Ryan Bray was no exception. He often passed beggars, their stories echoing in his mind, wondering how he could ease their suffering, even for a moment.
However, this particular Sunday was different. The story of the beggar was particularly disturbing and moved Ryan deeply. Instead of offering a few extra dollars that might temporarily alleviate the man’s problems but not provide a permanent solution, Ryan came up with a grander plan. He made an offer that went beyond charity; he suggested the homeless work for a family business for $15 an hour. The goal was to give the beggar the opportunity to permanently leave the street, to break out of the cycle of homelessness.
Ryan came up with a grander plan than just giving the man a few extra bucks that wouldn’t actually improve his life. He made a homeless man an offer to work for the family business for $15 an hour. The aim was to give the beggar an opportunity to leave the streets permanently.
The beggar didn’t want a normal job, which surprised Ryan. He informed Ryan that he decided to stay on the streets because begging would earn him more money than Ryan was willing to pay him for the job.
Ryan was really overwhelmed and upset by that time. The man was given a chance to improve his life, but he turned it down. Ryan decided to act as a result.
When Ryan got home, he built his own sign. Then he returned to the same street corner. When the beggar was given the opportunity to leave the streets, he became unhappy and the man stood there with his sign openly condemning him.
People were warned not to give money to beggars with Ryan’s sign. It explained that despite all the efforts, the homeless man did not appreciate his help.
“I offered him $15 an hour to work in my yard and he said no,” Ryan’s sign read. They will leave our neighborhood if we as a community stop giving them money.
The homeless man allegedly called Ryan a liar and said he was never offered a job.
Describing his encounter with the homeless man, Ryan said:
“He got into my car and asked, “Do you have any money?” “No, I have something better for you,” I retorted.
Watch the video below to learn more about Ryan’s story.
Ryan’s decision to create the sign, while controversial, reflects the power of individual action to spark dialogue and raise awareness of the complexities of homelessness. It also serves as a reminder that empathy and understanding are essential when facing the struggles of the homeless. The challenge is to find solutions that are compassionate and effective, recognizing that the path to self-sufficiency and transformation may be unique for each individual.
As we reflect on Ryan Bray’s story, it encourages us to examine our own responses to homelessness and consider ways we can positively impact the lives of those in need. While there may not be a one-size-fits-all solution, a commitment to offering help and raising awareness is a critical step in addressing this pressing societal problem. The lesson is that despite the opposition, it is essential to continue to strive for a world where no one has to live on the streets and where opportunities for transformation and hope are accessible to all.
