I just read a short article in Parade Magazine about Giving in Hard Times. The article starts by saying that charitable contributions tend to decrease when the economy is suffering - just when those charities are called on to help even more people. But just when you think things are awful and there is no happiness in the world, the article continues...
"Households that earn less than $100,000 a year account for almost half of the nation’s charitable giving. And this past holiday season, fund-raising drives from Beaufort, S.C., to Billings, Mont., reported support from community members who didn’t have much to give. Maj. Bill Grein of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation reports fewer toy donations this year but more cash from individuals and even new donors. “People are saying, ‘I can’t afford a full toy, but I can give $10 or $12,’ ” Major Grein explains."
What a renewal of faith in the goodness of people that was for me. Yes, times are hard. Yes, there is a lot of sadness, heartbreak, and even evil in the world today. But there is also a lot of goodness, faith, and determination succeed - if we're willing to look for it. I am grateful for that patch of sunshine today. I choose to find the joy.
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