Questions like, “how can they drive nice cars and ask for free food?” and “have they been to Asia or Africa to see the poorest of the poor, who had not a grain to eat and walked for days to find food?”
In our travels we have seen poverty, lack and need in every area of life. None have what we have in America. Despite the reports of bad economy, we have more than most have ever seen in their lifetime. But I refuse to judge, instead went out to give and volunteer locally.
After much soul searching and cleansing this year, I saw them in a different light….
Many came walking for miles or waiting for the local bus to take them to the holiday tent. I saw a teen girl with a precious baby in her arm, a single mom with five little kids running around, overweight depressed middle aged women with canes to aid them while standing in line, men who might have fallen or been in an accident and have no use of their legs and now in wheelchairs and many more.
Compassion comes with a bountiful heart. A heart that goes beyond our own circumstances and struggles. The art of giving is not normal for human beings. We are naturally selfish and self-centered. It is apparent everywhere in the world. Whether you are in Bukhara, Singapore, Tamarindo or Miami, the first person you and I think about is “What’s in it for ME”. Nothing wrong with that but if that is all we think about isn’t it time to venture outside ME?
America is a great nation…a generous and giving nation.
The great book said:
The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed
Rabbi Daniel Lapin said:
Through the mystical alchemy of money, giving charity jump-starts wealth creation
We have been refreshed and will not do it any other way.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Hi Claudia,
Great blog, you have some amazing articles and photos. If you are ever interested in submitting any articles or photos to us at BarrelHopping, we have ongoing contests where you can win cash to help fund your continued travels.