The historic human rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. used to say that we can all aspire to greatness because each individual has the capacity to be a good person who helps others.
In this sense, the purpose of human existence, seen from a personal point of view, is to contribute to improving the world, through small – or large – actions that generate a significant impact on the women and men around us. .
The problem is that we often don’t know where to start or what path to follow to support those who need it. The recurring excuse is that, no matter how hard we try, we will not be able to put an end to the evils that afflict societies.
Although it is unlikely to eradicate human suffering, we can hope to reduce or alleviate the pain of other individuals—especially the most vulnerable groups—as long as we have the will to act decisively.
There are different ways to put generosity into practice. Although the most visible is the contribution of money, it is certainly not the only one. Donating time, talent and non-monetary material resources is just as important.
Around the world there are millions of people who take on the challenge of giving what they can to make a difference. Their efforts, without a doubt, translate into tangible results and human progress.
Regarding monetary donations, in general, we tend to think that only billionaires have the financial capacity to contribute, so we overlook this option.
Under this logic, it is assumed that small amounts of money do not represent a major contribution, so it is not worth the effort. This belief is false, since everything adds up and no gesture of generosity is in vain.
As an example of the above, let’s look at the example of initiatives like Teletón, whose foundation is to request micro-contributions from ordinary people to achieve extremely ambitious money goals.
Even if the donations are of a few pesos, when multiplied by millions of benefactors, hundreds of millions are collected for the construction, in this case, of health and rehabilitation centers that help people with disabilities throughout the national territory.
Every peso counts, and there are many causes that we can promote through small donations. There are hundreds of local, national and international foundations that are supported by donations from ordinary people willing to be part of the change.
Time
Time is, in the opinion of many, the most precious element, so donating our hours to support those in need is worthy of admiration. Giving our time is as valuable as donating money.
Most civil associations dedicated to addressing social problems use volunteers who generously contribute their efforts. Without their work it would not be possible to change the lives of thousands – and even millions – of people.
The causes to support are practically endless: education, childhood, gender equality, health, peacebuilding, environment, social development, etc. Surely there is some association or foundation that we can join as part of volunteering to get to work.
By the way, donating time depends on each person’s possibilities; Again, everything adds up, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a month — there are also those who collaborate full time — the work is appreciated.
Donating human talent is crucial to advance pending issues. There are several initiatives that use knowledge, experience and individual qualities to make a difference in their environment.
Organizing medical brigades in rural communities, providing free legal advice to people in need, or carrying out campaigns to promote peace in certain areas: the above are examples of efforts that put talent and expertise at the service of people, with notable results.
Talents
We all have talents and skills that we can use for a good cause. Generosity is within our reach, and putting it into practice is very satisfying.
Finally, giving away what we no longer use is very useful for third parties. Whether it is clothing, medicine, furniture, groceries or other goods, donating to those in need has the potential to be crucial in benefiting vulnerable human beings.
Furthermore, by reusing these consumer goods, we contribute to caring for the environment through the circular economy. Once again: everything adds up.
Giving is transcending. Let’s revalue generosity, and together build a better present and a better future. – Merida Yucatan
Graduate in Law, Master in Administration
2023-12-24 09:36:05
#Guillermo #Fournier #Ramos #Generosity #revalued
