In books, TV shows, movies,
we have a weakness
for the lone wolf,
the person with no family
and no friends.
In reality, however,
this is a HUGE caution sign.
It is also a tactic
some scammers use
to gain our sympathy.
She’s a single mom
and she has no friends or family.
Often her parents kicked her out.
Her rent is due.
There’s no one else
who is willing to help her.
(I get this appeal
at least once a week.
It is usually prefaced by
they are my biggest fan.)
Ask yourself,
‘HOW is this possible?’
If she was born with family
(as almost all of us are),
how did she become alienated?
Why hasn’t she made
and kept friends
over the years?
What does this say
about her?
What prediction
does this make
about the future of
YOUR relationship with her?
If she’s asking for a job,
would you want
someone who has ZERO ability
to work with others on your team?
Wouldn’t it be more beneficial
for you to point her
to a charity or program
that could support her with relationships,
not simply cash or a job
or whatever else she is asking for?
The person
with no friends
and no family
is only appealing in fiction.
In real life,
that’s a huge red flag.
Added: I grew up truly broke.
We didn’t eat every day.
But my Mom had family.
She had friends.
They simply couldn’t help her.
There is a BIG difference
between having loved ones
who don’t have the ability to help
and not having anyone.