Madam – With Mandela Day this week, I want residents to realise that charity and giving back to the community should not be a one day a year initiative.
Charity begins at home, and what better place to start helping than by helping your own neighbours? We too often turn a blind eye to people in desperate need and often criticise them for asking for help.
Yet we are more than happy to spend 67 minutes for charity, while getting attention for ourselves so people can say how wonderful and kind-hearted we are.
It is just hypocritical to have this sort of mentality. We should help where we can, and when we can. If you have old clothes or things that do not fit anymore, there are plenty of places that are in desperate need of it.
Don’t only help to get attention. Do it because we are all human beings, who deserve dignity and respect. Do it because you genuinely want to help.
I changed my mindset many years ago, when I realised I was helping only for a pat on the back. I was disgusted at my behaviour, and vowed to make a change. I am not financially well off, but even my time could make a difference in the life of someone else.
When I volunteer, I do it with a clean heart and for a good reason. There are many ways to help the needy, that do not require money. You could spread the word, raise funds. or even spend a couple of hours assisting by reading a book to the elderly or even helping an organisation clean up.
There should be no excuse for not helping.
SJ
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