Joyce, what a generous way to gift something you loved and appreciated but weren't using. I find it easier to give than to receive--which I think is true for many women. A friend recently reminded me to remember how good it feels to give to others--and then remember that they, too, want to experience that good feeling by giving to me. It's good to allow for both/and--though it's not easy.
Thanks for your post and your response to a person in need. You ask, how do we respond in the face of overwhelming need? You have answered your own question by 1) being aware of the need, 2) sharing what you have, and 3) telling others about your experience to encourage them to do likewise.
Another action is to invest in organizations who support a larger group of people. Our local FoodBank is one such example, but there are many. Some choose national or international aid & development groups. Do your research & make a commitment that puts your caring into action.
Susan, thanks for your comment. i think one of the barriers of generosity is the vast, overwhelming need. It was hard in Ajijic not to be overwhelmed by the needs of the people and dogs we saw every day. The need is everywhere. I just finished a book that said there are 66,000 homeless people in Los Angeles alone (and that number is probably under estimated). How do those of us who have enough to eat and a warm place to sleep respond to that need? It's all too easy just to turn away and ignore it.
What a beautiful story, Joyce. Generosity comes easily to me, but living here in Ajijic for almost six years, I see the same beggars, who luckily don’t have to contend with cold, wet weather. Most go to some sort of home or camp at night. My heart breaks for the old, sick and forgotten and dying children who can’t get medical care. At times, gringos come across them and there is an out pouring of help. But I always cry for those who don’t have such help.
Becky ... that reminder from your friend is great. It is a gift to the giver to receive. But, it isn't easy and takes practice.
Joyce, what a generous way to gift something you loved and appreciated but weren't using. I find it easier to give than to receive--which I think is true for many women. A friend recently reminded me to remember how good it feels to give to others--and then remember that they, too, want to experience that good feeling by giving to me. It's good to allow for both/and--though it's not easy.
Thanks, Anita. Good plan ... and, I've been a long-time supporter of Food Bank. They do amazing work.
Thanks for your post and your response to a person in need. You ask, how do we respond in the face of overwhelming need? You have answered your own question by 1) being aware of the need, 2) sharing what you have, and 3) telling others about your experience to encourage them to do likewise.
Another action is to invest in organizations who support a larger group of people. Our local FoodBank is one such example, but there are many. Some choose national or international aid & development groups. Do your research & make a commitment that puts your caring into action.
Susan, thanks for your comment. i think one of the barriers of generosity is the vast, overwhelming need. It was hard in Ajijic not to be overwhelmed by the needs of the people and dogs we saw every day. The need is everywhere. I just finished a book that said there are 66,000 homeless people in Los Angeles alone (and that number is probably under estimated). How do those of us who have enough to eat and a warm place to sleep respond to that need? It's all too easy just to turn away and ignore it.
What a beautiful story, Joyce. Generosity comes easily to me, but living here in Ajijic for almost six years, I see the same beggars, who luckily don’t have to contend with cold, wet weather. Most go to some sort of home or camp at night. My heart breaks for the old, sick and forgotten and dying children who can’t get medical care. At times, gringos come across them and there is an out pouring of help. But I always cry for those who don’t have such help.