A 1000 word article on Pro Begging
As someone who spends a lot of time on the streets, I have witnessed and interacted with countless beggars. While many people view begging as a nuisance or even a scam, I have come to believe that begging can be a legitimate and even empowering means of survival. In this article, I will explore the idea of the "pro beggar," someone who begs as a profession and takes pride in their work.
Firstly, it is important to understand that begging is often a last resort for people who have no other options. Many beggars are homeless, mentally ill, or struggling with addiction. They may have been let down by the social safety net, or have faced discrimination and barriers to employment. In these cases, begging can provide a means of survival that is flexible and requires no formal qualifications or references.
However, begging is also stigmatized and criminalized in many societies. Beggars are often viewed as lazy, dishonest, or even dangerous. They may face harassment or arrest from law enforcement, or violence from members of the public. This can create a sense of shame and isolation for people who beg, and make it difficult for them to access resources and services.
Despite these challenges, there are many people who beg with pride and skill. These individuals might be called "pro beggars," a term that recognizes the expertise and professionalism that can go into begging. Pro beggars may develop strategies and techniques for maximizing their earnings, such as choosing high-traffic locations, cultivating a sympathetic appearance or story, or tailoring their approach to different types of people. They may also develop relationships with regular donors, or form networks with other beggars to share tips and resources.
What distinguishes pro begging from other forms of begging is the intentionality and agency behind it. Pro beggars see begging as a legitimate form of work that requires effort and skill, rather than a passive or shameful act. They may take pride in their ability to survive and thrive on the streets, and view begging as a way to assert their independence and autonomy.
Of course, not all beggars identify as pro beggars, and many may not even be aware of the term. Moreover, it is important to acknowledge that begging is often a difficult and precarious form of work. Beggars may face harassment, abuse, or arrest, and may be subject to the whims of weather, location, and chance. They may also struggle with the emotional toll of begging, such as shame, fear, or guilt.
Nevertheless, pro begging offers a counter-narrative to the idea that begging is inherently bad or pitiful. It suggests that begging can be a form of resistance and survival in the face of poverty and oppression. It also challenges the assumption that people who beg are passive or helpless, and instead highlights the creativity, resourcefulness, and agency that can go into begging.
At the same time, it is important to recognize that pro begging is not a solution to poverty or homelessness. Begging is a survival strategy that should be available to people who need it, but it is not a substitute for social policies and programs that address the root causes of poverty and inequality. Instead, pro begging should be seen as a form of resistance and self-determination that can coexist with other forms of activism and advocacy.
Furthermore, it is important to note that pro begging is not a homogeneous or static phenomenon. Beggars are diverse in their backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, and may have different goals and strategies for begging. Some beggars may prioritize earning as much money as possible, while others may prioritize building relationships with donors or connecting with other beggars. Some may see begging as a temporary or transitional phase, while others may see it as a long-term or even lifelong pursuit.
Ultimately, the concept of the pro beggar challenges us to rethink.
#PROBEGGER
