Having Empathy

I have noticed something disturbing happening in this town.

I was driving down Santiago Dr., and saw a man laying on the ground near a shopping cart. He didn’t look right. One leg was off the sidewalk, and he looked sprawled out. I saw three cars drive past him. Didn’t even slow down. I turned around to go check on him. More cars drove by. NOBODY cared to stop. One lady in a white minivan stopped on the corner, looked back to see if he was okay. I don’t know why, maybe she saw me, because she drove away as I pulled over. I went to the man and asked if he was okay. He looked up at me, and said “yes I’m okay, just need to catch my breath “. I asked if he needed an ambulance. He said, "No thanks". He said a spider bit him, but he’s okay. He had his left foot covered by a clean bandage, well placed. I asked if he needed help getting up. He again said thank you. But he would be okay. Just give him a minute. 

I waited a little. When I saw him sit up, I left. My problem is the lack of empathy from people. It breaks my heart to see people drive by and not even just stop and call an ambulance. (If they didn’t want to approach him). When my husband stopped to check on a man passed out face down in the gutter, he told me nobody stopped. Nobody cared. Even a police car drove by, looked and kept driving. He checked on the man along with a co worker. They called 911 for him. This made me cry, and I don’t cry often. (I knew I married a good man)These people are someone’s family. We are all God’s children. Where are all the people who speak of Jesus? I don’t understand. 

I don't know what what you believe in, but I know that most faiths tell us to treat others as we want to be treated. I know I’ll get bashed for this, but I sent this piece to "Moreno Valley Matters". I was in the phone with a good friend and loved one as I was driving home.  I told him what I saw, and I told him I was gong to check on that person.  He stayed on the phone with me, in case I needed him.  He heard all of it. I have a picture, but out of human decency, I won’t post it. I took it in case something else happened, and I might need it.. I only want to wake people up to being kind to one another, that’s all.

I understand some people would feel unsafe checking, and more so if they have children in the car.  But think of this, is that not a good example to set for your children?  To teach them compassion?  Anyway, at least pull over, make sure that person doesn't get hit by a car, and call 911 to report it.  Easy! People are always quick to pull out their phones to take pictures of accidents, or funny things.  Why not pull your phone out and use it for what it was meant to be used?  Make a call, and ask for help.