As she came closer I recognized her. She’s asked me for tzedakah in the past. “Please ” she asked in her accented English. “Something for me for Shabbos.” I searched through my wallet but came up empty-handed. “I’m sorry. I have no money on me.” I gave her an apologetic smile and hoped she appreciated my sincerity. I had no cash on me at all. I resumed my search for cream and heard her ask me to buy her something for Shabbos. She’s kidding right? We’re in the pharmacy and I’m in a rush.

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