Thread by @revathitweets

True story:
A couple of days ago, I went to a supermarket near my house almost around closing time. When I was nearly done and in the snacks aisle, a man approached me with two packs of biscuits. He was mumbling something and I asked him what he needed. Cont1

He asked if I was Telugu, I replied in the affirmative. Then he told that those biscuits were for his children and asked if I could buy them for him. I took them and put them in my basket. I went to pick one last item on my list but was disturbed. Cont2

Somewhere the pain of a father who had to ask a random stranger for 2packs of biscuits disturbed me.I started picking up food that kids may need& want. The man again came to me asking if I need help with the basket. I refused and then he told me that he would wait outside. Cont3

Got the bill done and he was standing outside with a carry bag. I handed over the biscuits and the other food I picked for the children. Then he said, “I am sorry for troubling you”. I asked him about his children. He has two daughter, 3yr and 7yr old. Cont4

Had a decent job at a printing press. During lockdown his team was divided into two- one who work &others who will wait for work. He didn’t lose his job, he just doesn’t get any pay and has been waiting. He exhausted his savings...he has been doing some odd jobs- but still! Cont5

Before I could say anything- he said “you helped me like my own an akka today”, and had tears. I had a million thoughts - if those biscuits were for his children’s dinner/ If they were waiting for him. And then this very sad feeling engulfed me. Cont6

He said namaste, I too folded my hands and then walked away. Went to pick some medicines but the feeling was killing me. I came back looking for the man, to ask if he needs anything more. Couldn’t find him.
I still feel terrible that I didn’t ask. I should have. Cont7

Yes I picked some food for his children-but what if he needed rice/dal or anything else. I should have asked him, &this feeling kills me...knowing that there are so many people out there struggling for a pack of biscuits for their daughter..knowing that they need more help.Cont8

Wish I did more! These are still tough times.
Look around you if there are ppl who need help- offer them help even if they didn’t ask. Don’t do the mistake I did...offer more when they ask 🙏🏼