The Cause at Home
Although it seems like there is so little compassion in the world, many of us are very committed to helping those who are in need. Even when we ourselves are striving to make our way, we willingly press pause and pour out ourselves. When we see that there is a demand, we do what is within our means to commit of our time and resources. We contribute financially to organizations whose mission is to feed the hungry, clothe the needy and house the homeless. We devote ourselves to mentoring wayward youth, encouraging them to pursue education in preparation for a prosperous future. Some of us have even traveled across the globe to give to those in barren lands; attempting to infuse the hope of a better life. We clearly understand that there is nothing like an optimistic perspective and an opportunity for change. We realize that what we impart to others can alter their entire existence. Just one gesture of kindness will set someone on the path towards great victory. However most of us would rather tend to the gardens of strangers, than to what is withering in our own backyards.
We exude great passion for those who lie vulnerable in the streets, yet we have family members exposed to those very same dangers. We invest in expensive trips to foreign lands to offer a helping hand but have no charity for those in our own community. We visit and revitalize those who are imprisoned. yet we fail to mentor the children we know who are venturing on a dangerous path. We endeavor to visit the sick and shut-in, when our elderly constantly need attention and care. We seek to employ strangers who have difficulty securing a job, when we have a myriad of friends who face unemployment. Thousands of dollars we contribute to our alma maters to only have our name engraved on doors and chairs, when the very community we live in is suffering.
How do we mange to overlook what is right before us to focus on what is in the distance? Why do we choose to take up the causes of others and lack the charity we should exemplify in our own homes? It is futile to show love and generosity to those you don't know and in turn neglect those who have been strategically placed in our care. While we are out creating new causes or looking for people to empower, we are failing those who sit right before us. Although the act of giving is highly commendable, we cannot take pride and comfort in ignoring the needs of our neighbors. It's not about picking and choosing to do those things that make us feel the way we desire to feel. Filling a need is not about the doer at all, it's solely about the recipient. Therefore, I implore you to first seek to nurture and enrich the lives of those around you. If you truly endeavor to make a difference in the world, simply begin by fighting the cause at home.
Thinking Out Loud!