If you are even somewhat aware of world news, you have heard of the devastating earthquake which occurred in Haiti. With tens of thousands dead, and even more injured, the need for help is immediate.
Last week, “The Reflect and Connect Series” discussed charity, what that means for Haiti, and for those who are serving.
Dr. Greg Park of Millersville University’s Communication Department led the discussion, which focused on Maya Angelou’s piece, “The Sweetness of Charity.” Angelou describes her view of charity, and what it means. The poet’s piece was used as the discussion’s foundation.
Today, charity has become big business. The difference between charity and philanthropy has become blurred.
Charity is doing something without expecting anything in return, while philanthropy is the business of giving money.
However, charity is starting to become more about business and money, more than helping those in need.
Even in the midst of this tragedy in Haiti, we are still skeptical of charity. We question the motives of others, and ourselves. Is our giving guilt-driven? Or business based? Are we doing it to make ourselves feel better? Or do we believe it will bring us good karma? Or maybe it is mission based, or requirement-based charity. What ever the reason may be for our giving, Angelou gives an inspiring, and humble definition of charity, “Charity is kind envieth not, vaunteth not itself; is not puffed up.”
Those who were involved in the discussion spoke of compassion and action.
Instead of feeling guilty for not giving in the past, get out of your comfort zone.
Instead of feeling for individuals in need, feel with them.
Get out there, and research organizations that you care about.
Howard Jones, a discussion participant said, “Think about yourself, and how you can benefit someone in need, think about others in the long term. Connect with your professors, connect with the different opportunities this University has to offer, and learn from those around you. Build relationships in your cities, and change someone else’s life by getting out there and helping in anyway you can, big or small.”
This world is broken and battered, and acts of kindness are rare.
Even in the midst of disaster, acts of kindness and giving should not be criticized, because kindness is charity, according to Maya Angelou’s powerful piece.
The Reflect & Connect Series is a series of gatherings where community members, both from the Millersville University, as well as the larger community, read short pieces of literature on service, reflect on civic engagement, and connect with the community. This is a year-long series, and features four meetings each semester, the second Wednesday evening of each month from 5-6:30 p.m.
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