I'm going to have to take a different way home tonight

[meriad]

I know it's really not a lot of money and I have more than them.... but I really felt put on the spot.

There's a lady Big Issue seller who for quite some time has been standing at the top of the stairs of the bridge I cross to get to Waterloo station; and as one does we started acknowledging each other and saying hello. She often used to ask if I want to buy the Big Issue and I've always politely declined and she hasn't asked for some time.

Last week however as I was walking by she called out to me saying: It's my birthday next Thursday (ie today); will you buy one then?

sigh.... I really now feel like I can't walk past her without buying the magazine. As said it's only £2.00 but I really feel like I'm being forced into that purchase - sigh

[Rodo]

I suppose really you ought to greet her, say "Happy Birthday" but decline to buy the magazine on principle.

Having said that - it's easy to know what one should do, but actually doing it is another matter.

[TheOstrich]

LOL, it's the embarrassment factor, isn't it. Yes, I think like you, I'd be going home from London Victoria tonight, meriad .....

[JoM]

You need a disguise Ria!

That's the sort of dilemma I'd manage to have though so I know just how you feel

[victor]

agree with Rodo on this

[saundra]

Borrow debnih. Wig lol

[meriad]

excellent idea Saundra!

[debih]

In the words of Zammo "just say no".

[Kaz]

It is a tricky one, and I see your dilemma, but I reckon just smile and say "No thanks, but Happy Birthday" and walk past.......I never buy the mag but there is a guy in town who sells it (amongst many) and I occasionally slip him a quid just for a cuppa - it's daft but he looks a lot like my eldest, and it just makes me think 'There but for the grace...etc etc' - but I would never let him make me feel obligated..........

There is no way you should be made to change your way home ((((((x))))))