Star-Power can Overshadow a Great Cause!
Celebrities today back many worthy causes, and they do so on a national, sometimes international scale. While their efforts to pull masses around them should be and are applauded, do you realize that YOU can make a difference just by doing something extraordinary for someone rather ordinary that will alter their life, without needing or wanting 'fame by osmosis'?
I noticed that recently a celebrity has decided to sponsor a hunger program. Great! The campaign has raised awareness for people that are in need of assistance in America. But, when you donate on a national level, where do your dollars go? My thought is that if you donate canned or boxed goods that are on sale at your local store to your local food bank, you are doing more good for someone immediately, and getting involved in YOUR community.
I was working on a charity website just for giggles and for a good cause. I feel the need to make a difference, but I don't feel the need for awards and standing ovations. However, when the particular charity I was working for and trying to at least get some validation for the work totally ignored me, I took my mother's advice. (yes, mother's are always right because God gave them that "I'm always right" gene).
I shifted the focus of it to a LOCAL and very important cause, and received immediate responses from them. Now we are in collaboration for all kinds of fund raising and great events to be held. It's LOCAL. The site is up and running, and is doing very well.
There is another celebrity that I donated to one time, it was, to me, a relatively sizable check, considering my income. I never even received a notice - no thank you - no nothing. I always donate anonymously, only because I feel that this is the joy of giving. However, I was rather put-off that an acknowledgment of my gift wasn't even sent. No appreciation. And, face it, we all want to be appreciated for our efforts in SOME way. That was the last time I gave to that cause.
The point that I'm trying to convey here is that first, you take care of yourself. Then, whatever you have - anything that is left - GIVE. It is in giving that we fill our souls with the joy that we're helping others - whether it's through donating a can of food, or a bag of dog food to your local humane society.
Jumping on a celebrity bandwagon is fine if that's your thing. It's the grassroots organizations, however, that truly make the most difference. If you assist with your community, you are helping YOUR community become stronger.
And, remember: We don't need to BE something special; we ARE something special by being born a Human. We ALL have a shiny star around us, and we ALL have the ability within to reach out.
Make it a great day!
Sending you angels,
Jane