Kindness, Scams, the Catholic Church: a few things I learned in Mexico

People in Mexico were very kind to panhandlers.  Much more than in the US.  I routinely saw people drop a few pesos in someone's cup.  In the US I almost never see someone give money.  Here, we often blame the poor for their own situation, and people often don't want to "encourage" begging.  People will often tell about that one story they heard about a guy that makes over 100k a year begging.  In Mexico, people are sympathetic to others' hardships.  They are less judgmental and more willing to spare some change.  Maybe it's the strong Catholic faith, or maybe more people have experienced hardship themselves and they understand.  Whatever the reason, I am going to be more giving in the future.  I also experienced people being very kind to me.  Many people offered help with translations, directions, making appointments and reservations.  
On the other side of the coin (pun intended), for a financial transaction, many people will overcharge and scam you.  Maybe it's their way to fight back against American imperialism.  Maybe they are just trying to get as much as possible because you never know when harder times will come.  Regardless, bargaining is an expected part of the culture here, so it is necessary to shop around, research prices, and be prepared to walk away if the price isn't right.
The Catholic Church.  I think I read that 99% of Mexicans are Catholic.  It is major part of people's lives and culture.  It shapes their outlook on everything - including Covid.  Everywhere you can find Catholic churches, rosary beads, and statues of Guadalupe.  I also learned that the Vatican has cash and investments worth 5-10 billion dollars.  Naturally, this raised some questions...  but I will leave it here.