Courage or Desperation?

I spent practically the whole day today shopping around for more Christmas presents, mostly for my friends' sons and daughters. Bought some stuff for myself too and some stocking stuffers for D. Now I'm home and getting ready to wrap a few presents.

Earlier, as I came to a full stop at a red light on Ashby Ave. in Berkeley, I noticed a woman, probably in her forties. She was standing at the intersection holding a sign for everybody to see:

"Homeless Woman
Need Work Help
Thank You"

And I sat there thinking how much courage does it take to hold a sign for the world to see. Or was it desperation that drove her to where she was? Then I began thinking about myself. What if I was in her shoes? Well, I don't know the facts of her life but I thought what if I was at the end of my rope? What if I reached a dead-end road and I only had two things to choose from so I could live: Beg or steal.

Would I let go of my pride and hold a sign to beg for help? Or would I choose to develop an uncanny skill of stealing? Will the end justify the means? Suddenly, I have a dilemma. I honestly don't know whether I would prefer begging over stealing. And I sure don't know whether I could justify stealing.

Hmmm, WWJD? (What Would Jesus Do)

You know, I have no clue. Really, I don't.