Empathy or Guilt

Submitted by broken heart (United Kingdom), Aug 6, 2008 at 04:51

I am compelled to help Hamid because I know that I am lucky to have been born with a US passport and all the opportunities and freedom this gives me. I see so much potential in him, but it is stunted by his background and life in a highly bureaucratic and inefficient country. He left his village in the mountains (no running water or electricity) 7 years ago. His formal schooling was 4 years where at least he learned to read a little and his uncle taught him french. He is naturally intelligent and deep deep deep down a kind and moral man.

He and I will never have a life together, nor should we as our age difference - 17 years, is just too much. Nevertheless I want him to reach his dreams of a family and an escape from poverty. I agree that a purchased visa and work contract is not the way as these are often scams and I do not want to fund this. Any ideas of what I can do to help him improve his life without in essence, "adopting" him (LOL).

I know you will not approve, but I am off to see him again this weekend. I love the scenery of the mountains and the kasbahs, his company is a roller coaster, but I obviously get something out of it. The good news is that with each visit (this being my 4th) and with the passage of time, my desire and passion for him diminishes. I still cannot get over the desire to help him though.

Please your advice would be very very very appreciated.

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