The difference between an amateur and a professional is that the professional gets paid to do what they do and the amateur does it for free just for the enjoyment. So I got to thinking about this the other day, and you all know by now, when I get to thinking about something it tends to take an interesting turn from the norm.

Anyway, if the determining factor for a professional is that they get paid, does that mean that panhandlers are professionals? I mean, think about it. Panhandlers, if they’re any good and have a good work ethic, can stand to make pretty good money in a day (depending on where they stand). I would say that makes them a pro by definition.

But adversely, what would an amateur panhandler be? Starving I guess. I mean if the definition of amateur is somebody who does something without getting paid, then an amateur panhandler must be a little confused. Actually, can there even be an amateur panhandler? I mean, the purpose of panhandling is to make money right. So an amateur panhandler would be an enigma. Do they take the money and then give it back? I think amateur panhandlers are really just bad professional panhandlers. But I could be wrong.