So I came across the above article today and it really got me thinking. I for one have never used these community sites that they're talking about where people see if they can get free items or favours or whatever it is they are in need of. But I have come across plenty of people from colleagues to neighbours to so-called friends who try their luck in seeing what they can get out of you. I really can't stand insincere behaviour so I avoid these kinds of people like the plague.
A lot of people talk about the good old days when there was community spirit and everyone looked out for each other and so forth. But these days we've become so cynical that despite wanting to feel part of a community and give each other a helping hand, we shy away from people the moment they ask for something because we feel like we're going to be had. But for all we know, they could be genuinely kind-hearted people who would be willing to give you a helping hand if you need it. And I have to admit, I'm guilty of thinking like this too.
Have we become so cynical as a society that community-mindedness has gone out the window?
I think people have become so cynical because we live in a world where there are too many takers who take too much and give nothing back. I too have met many people like this. But I like to think I'm a good judge of character. I know when someone genuinely needs help and when someone is just taking advantage. The latter never gets my help and I don't feel bad about that at all.