7 ways to walk past a homeless person without feeling middle-class guilt.
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Loading... - Morken Brandt
- 05 Jun 2023
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Navigating the presence of homeless individuals can be a challenging task, especially when encountered near an establishment like Waitrose. However, it is possible to set aside the guilt associated with social class and move past these situations gracefully. Here are some suggestions to help you accomplish this:
1. Maintain a focused gaze and divert your thoughts
Observing a homeless person may elicit feelings of sadness or despair. To avoid these unpleasant emotions, simply ignore their presence and redirect your attention to other thoughts, such as envisioning a delicious cake or picturing adorable puppies (but not ones on strings). Essentially, muster the courage to refrain from looking at them. You can even turn it into a game by pretending they are Weeping Angels while you play the role of Doctor Who.
2. Express sympathy through facial expressions
If you prefer not to ignore the homeless individuals but also wish to avoid engaging in conversation - as it typically revolves around distressing topics - you can adopt a melancholic facial expression. Try to convey the message that although you will not interact or provide money, you genuinely feel remorseful about the situation. They may find this display of empathy oddly comforting.
3. Use nonchalant gestures and mention the absence of change
The nonchalant approach to homelessness is deeply ingrained in our society. Employing the classic combination of a shrug and mumbled words can be immensely helpful for those without a home. Uttering phrases like, "Sorry, no change," accompanied by vague mumbling and a sheepish shrug, has become a national institution. This cultural practice has become so pervasive that future generations might even possess an innate ability to dismiss those in need with an apologetic mumble about their bank cards.
4. Wear headphones
Listening to music through headphones serves as an excellent method of avoiding interactions with fellow humans in general. When navigating past rough sleepers and the subsequent pangs of shame, an upbeat playlist can uplift your mood. Just ensure the volume is not too loud, lest they overhear cheerful tunes like "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina and the Waves as you briskly pass their makeshift sleeping arrangements.
5. Offer brief words of encouragement
Sometimes, a few kind words can be more valuable than material possessions like money or shelter. While this notion may not necessarily hold true, it does save you from spending any resources. Attempt to convey something vaguely positive, such as "Take care," but be cautious not to overdo the optimism. Phrases like "Things will look better in the morning" or "Turn that frown upside down!" may not be appropriate in this context.
6. Swiftly pass by as if it were an emergency
If you find yourself feeling particularly apprehensive, you can simply sprint past any homeless individuals you encounter. It is crucial that they remain unaware of your avoidance, so pretend as if you are in the midst of a life-or-death situation, exclaiming something like, "Oh God – the hospital!" while dashing past. By moving swiftly enough, you might even outpace your own feelings of guilt and hypocrisy. Just hope that the homeless person does not ask, "Are you okay, love/mate?" as that would undoubtedly make you feel remorseful.
7. Feign a conversation with a homeless charity on your phone
The crux of the matter lies in this: you may not genuinely desire to assist homeless individuals (given the need for conversation and monetary involvement), but you do wish to project an image of yourself as someone who does. Therefore, the next time you encounter a homeless person, hold your phone to your ear and loudly proclaim, "Hello, is this Shelter? I would like to increase my monthly donation." If a genuine sense of guilt emerges from this act, it suggests that you possess a conscience and are not as
