At the Mall

Everytime I pass the messy charity booth set next to Build-a-Bear's doors, I glance at the people covered in “Jesus is Coming” slogans, and wonder "are you ok?" I know how faith can be used as a cover to abuse desperate people, and the restless energy they sell their bright t-shirts with makes me feel uneasy. Of course, I know that I’m being overly paranoid. Who else but a jaded soul can see terror in a simple act of charity? Who else flinches at the hopeful look in a stranger’s eye? Still, I can’t help but think, “are you ok?”