Donate: Don’t Forget To Share the Wealth
June 6th, 2006 | by Molly's Brother |Tithe. Donate. Potato. Pot-ah-to. Either way, make sure you share your wealth.
Honestly, I’m uncomfortable with the word “tithe,” because for too many people who are trying to climb out of debt, 10% of your take-home income seems like an astronomical amount of money. You might not be in a position to give money right now–especially not upwards of 10%.I am more partial to the word “donate,” as a donation can consist of your time, your money, or any other resource at your disposal. Also, by giving of yourself, you’ll discover how much more discipline you’ve become in your life.
There are a ton of organizations that need YOU. Volunteer at your local soup kitchen, food pantry, or shelter for battered and abused women. Give money to an HIV/AIDS organization.
But as you are creating wealth and as you are uncovering the keys to your financial future, do not forget to give back to the community in which you live. There are too many people in pain out there. Regardless of the “personal responsibility” argument that many of you use to avoid helping others, the fact remains that these people are still in pain. These men, women, and children still go hungry at night. They still freeze without shelter. And they die alone. I am stunned at how long it has taken me to write about something that’s important in my life (community involvement through volunteering and charitable giving) and I am dismayed by how little conversation occurs in the financial blogosphere regarding this issue, as well.
It comes down to the same central notion that caused you to get your finances in order in the first place: Do what you can, when you can. But, at least do something.
