In my Ethics in Philanthropy class we discussed giving. Carnegie says the wealthy are morally obligated to give to the poor. Author of The Life You Can Save, Peter Singer suggests that if you have the ability (money/power) to save the life of somebody less fortunate, then you are morally obligated to do so. He encourages people to give their money to the starving people in third world countries because a little bit goes a long way compared to giving here in America. Give internationally, and save more lives.
This all got me thinking about how to give, how much, and to whom. Granted, I'm a poor college student right now but hey, I'm thinking ahead. In DC, the begging is ridiculous! I've been hit up for money more times than I can count. My most recent encounter was at the Union Station Metro. A shaky, older, black gentleman approached me when I made eye contact. Yikes! Mistake number one- making eye contact. He asked that I be patient because he can't speak very well after having a stroke. And went on to tell his whole story about needing to get back to his family. He asked for some cash and- my phone number. That I found was strange. He wanted to be able to pay me back three-fold, but there was no way I was going to give this man my phone number. I did however pull three ones out of my wallet.
What would you have done? Do you have a reason for always giving, or never giving?
Top 8 songs (not in any particular order) that describe my experience in DC this summer:
Bill on Capitol Hill
Two Coins Dispatch
Summer in the City- Regina
David Bowie-Young Americans
Violent Femmes- Waiting for the bus
Stand By Me- Playing for Change
Jack Johnson- People Watching
Cellophane- Chicago
<3 Rachel Rachel
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ReplyDeleteHey R squar'd - I always buy a poppy from a Veteran on Veteran's Day and buy absolutely anything from a legitimate kid selling door-to-door. I NEVER give money to the folks standing/sitting/rolling in the median of the streets or service roads (unless it's a Fireman with a boot). I put money in every Salvation Army kettle I pass and I have emptied my scant pockets (rarely) for the right individual with the right story and right gut feeling, although I do not generally give to UNKNOWN individuals. I do enthusiastically support those known to me personally who are "mission bound" - religious, political, humanitarian, whatever. I know it's tough times for people, but second dear Brooke's comments - in America, there are abundant resources that are designed to fill the gap. I am a fervent believer in the philosophy of "give a man a fish...vs ...teach a man to fish..." recognizing that a simple handout relieves the problem for the moment while specific education, mentoring with accountability, and targeted support can change lives. And that's how I roll! Love ya, Aunt Vicki
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