A homeless man in New York City rebuked me one day. I found him going through a trashcan on the side of our Manhattan church building. Frankly, I was irritated, and I said, "Hey, when you're through with the can, put it all back, and make sure the lid is on." I started to walk away.

"Just a minute," he called out. I turned to face him. He said, "I'll be glad to do what you asked if you ask me respectfully."

Respectfully! He had me. This man knew disrespect when he heard it.

I sucked in my breath and said, "You're absolutely right, and I'm so sorry. Sir, when you're finished, it would mean a lot to me if you would please make sure the area is tidy."

"I'd be glad to," he responded. We shook hands.