Normally, on Thursdays I post a "Thankful Thursday" post that chronicles the tender mercies that blessed my life that week. This week will be a little different. Many years ago a wise man was speaking on the subject of charity when he said, "Don't institutionalize your giving." He was referring to the fact that many of us rely upon regular, scheduled donations on our part to specific organizations. We might contribute yearly or monthly to these good causes, thus in our own minds making a mental note that we are "doing our part" to relieve suffering throughout our communities or the world. At times we might rely too heavily upon the organizations to help those in need, thus distancing ourselves from the suffering and pain experienced by those in distress. Although helpful in many ways, it is an isolating and insulating way to serve.
When he referred to "institutionalizing our giving" he was encouraging us not to solely rely upon our usual methods of scheduled donations, but when needs arise to stretch beyond our normal limits and seek opportunities to serve and give in unusual, more personal, less convenient ways. His thoughts stirred my soul, and since then I've tried to live my life in accordance with those principles. When I have, my life has been richer and more meaningful.
Which brings me to the title of this post, "A Huge Relief."
A huge relief effort is being made by many organizations to help those suffering from the calamitous effects of the devastating earthquake in Haiti that occurred earlier this week. I'd like to do my part. For one week I will donate
all of my proceeds of a number of items in my
Etsy Shop to relief efforts in Haiti. I can't go there in person to help, but I can pledge to assist in my own unique way. One hundred percent of the proceeds from my designated
Etsy sales will be donated to
an organization that charges no overhead and where 100% of your donation will go toward humanitarian efforts in Haiti. You can be assured that your money will be put to good use, and you'll receive a little something in return from my
Etsy shop for your generosity.
My family has never experienced the kind of devastation that has affected those in Haiti, but twelve years ago one of my sons was serving a mission in the Dominican Republic when Hurricane George descended upon that island and ravaged areas in the Dominican Republic and Haiti. As a result of his service, that island, and most especially the people, have a special place in our hearts.
Please go
HERE to find the items that are designated for this donation. Thank you so much,
