Navigating the Symbiosis of Kindness and Exploitation: A Filipino-American Perspective

Kindness is a universal emotion that transcends borders, cultures, and communities. However, the lens through which we perceive and interact with acts of kindness can vary significantly based on our backgrounds and experiences. In the case of my Filipino heritage, experiences with beggars and those in need have shaped my perspective on philanthropy and ethical giving. This article explores the complexities of these interactions, drawing on my background living in Canada and returning to the Philippines, as well as my Taoist philosophy and Japanese aesthetics guiding my life.

The Dilemma of Helping

The phrase 'helping a beggar who bites your hand' is a poignant reminder of the inherent risks involved in giving to those in need. From a financial standpoint, these individuals may be seen as parasites. However, morally and emotionally, the act of helping beggars is often welcomed, as many Filipinos understand the cyclical nature of poverty and the challenges faced by those who once were in their own shoes.

My experience with a beggar outside of the comfort of my apartment one day, offering a few coins left over from lunch, was a simple yet profound lesson. I saw an opportunity to contribute to someone's day, hoping that a small gesture could make a meaningful difference. While the benefactor did not demand more, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of discomfort, a shadow of doubt lingering over the act of giving.

The Influence of Experiences and Philosophy

Living in Canada for 15 years before returning to the Philippines allowed me to observe different communities from varying perspectives. These experiences taught me that the desire to exploit kindness extends beyond any single ethnic group. Westerners, including Canadians, can be as exploitative as anyone else.

Guided by Taoist philosophy and Japanese aesthetics, my approach to life is one of simplicity and minimalism. These philosophies discourage excessive materialism and public attention, which can attract those seeking to exploit any form of sympathy or kindness. My goal is to lead a life where I am less visible, thus reducing the likelihood of being exploited.

The Reality of Human Nature

The challenges of navigating philanthropy are not limited to one community or culture. The pandemic brought these issues to the forefront, especially in the Philippines, where familiar patterns of exploitation resurfaced. Beggars, known as people who 'bite the hand that feeds them,' often create situations that rely on the number of attempts to elicit a response. These individuals see the act of asking, no matter how frequent, as a strategy to obtain needed assistance.

Helping is an ethical responsibility, yet the risk of being exploited is ever-present. While I understand that not everyone who asks for help is inherently trying to exploit, it is necessary to remain vigilant to protect oneself from undue burdens.

Conclusion

Experiences with kindness and exploitation are not unique to any single community. They are part of the human condition, reflecting the complex interplay of empathy, self-preservation, and altruism. By understanding and acknowledging these dynamics, we can navigate the world with greater awareness and compassion, ensuring that our intentions to help align with our values and morals, without falling into the trap of exploitation.