Personal responsibility

Well, this conversation started on facebook when I posted a status about my mom's recent medical mission trip to Nicaragua. A friend asked, "Why does America always send money and help to other countries? Why don't we help ourselves?". This is a good question and targets one of my strongest values - personal responsibility. It is a bit of a pet peeve and this will no doubt be a bit of a rant but....

I believe that individuals should be responsible for themselves and for as much more as they can handle - financially, physically, emotionally everything It seems to me that if every single individual person who had something to give - gave - then the world would be a better place. I mean money, time and talents whatever. I think that in general, most Americans have a lot - usually more than they might actually need. I have observed that many take for granted much of what we have. Why not share? How much sacrifice would it really be to donate a little money? Got no money? Get out there and give your time! There are millions of opportunities to volunteer - you choose the time commitment.

There are two things about people who have that really chap me - people whining about the government not doing anything/everything/enough for others. Get off your butt and go do it! Why wait? Also, what's up with people who have SO much not wanting to share or only sharing a little. I know it is judgemental of me, many rich and famous people have funds or foundations to help others but really they also still have five house, bunches of cars and excessive lifestyles!

I believe that it is all about opportunity. I don't really think people should have everything handed to them on a golden platter but I do think that the opportunities should be there. Children without access to health care, food, sleep, clothing, safety, security - can't reach opportunities. I have known children who have never been in another state, never tasted a kiwi, never owned a bed. I have met children who have no books in their homes, no door on their room, no food on the shelf.

How hard could it possibly be to fix this? Why can't we share generously? Give freely and unconditionally? Why can't we believe that giving is enough? Why must we have expectations of gratefulness and thanks? We are too often reluctant to give because "they" might use it for something "they" don't need. Wonder where "they" learned that?! Give what can't be misused. Give without expectation of deep heartfelt thanksgiving. Understand that people feel tired, worn, ashamed, disappointed, needy and sad. They might feel that they are justified in wanting more for themselves. Don't we all want more and better opportunities for ourselves and our children?

People need - give what you can! Giving is like planting seeds, it might grow and change into something new and wonderful.

Be personally responsible for change! Don't wait for someone else to fix it!