JD !!! Thank you for your wonderful words of wisdom
Dancing with glee and twirling around !!! I wrote out some of the things you said and started a list to take in tomorrow. You know, in fact that is what caused the last incident. There was a sign, that I did not see, limiting all food, but it was placed in an area not visible to me when I first came in and no one pointed it out to me before I started shopping.
Knowledge is empowering and if I approach my intake with a positive spirit that I want to understand the rules and regs and have a positive experience (in lieu of creeping in like a victim), then surely it has to work.
No one explained to me what my limitations were, so I will get that explained upfront.
I think as long as I continue to remind myself to keep grounded, I should be okay.
I do feel very awkward when I am filling my basket, because there is always someone more needier than I.
Thanks JD !!!
Quote:
Originally Posted by (JD)
I'm really sorry that you were treated that way, and that it's prevented you from returning until now.
Why not, when you first go in, ask if there are "any limits or guidelines, as [you] might have need of more things in one area than another?"
As one who gives to charity often and abundantly, I want those who need to get... if there weren't people needing, like you, then I wouldn't have the pleasure and reward of giving. If it weren't for you, those people wouldn't have an opportunity to volunteer, or if paid, have a job. Some people forget about the process.
Work hard at being friendly... people have a tendency to go out of their way to help those who are nice and friendly (as opposed to shy, closed up, angry, etc.) Praise them for the good work they do, and how much you appreciate the help. Take some pictures along with you (small ones, in your purse or wallet) to remind you to smile and feel good about having some needs met and not having to worry.
Hold your head high. I've been on food stamps in the distant past, and felt bad and inferior...but alas, it helped me to get on my feet and not ever need them again. It's those who don't feel any twinge about needing and taking that I wonder about. 
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