We automatically think that investments are things we put our trust into whether it's financial or emotional support. We buy real estate, stocks, antiques, etc. all in the hopes of receiving some type of personal gain. But, we often forget the most important investment that is our fellowman.
Believing in someone is the most important commitment we can make, yet we often fail to show it. How difficult is it to say encouraging words to someone who is doing a good job? What about a child who just accomplished a difficult task?
Occasionally we may underestimate the power we have. We don't speak up or take action because we think what we do won't matter, BUT it does. The popular phrase, "you can't save the world" is not entirely correct. Maybe one person can't do it by him or herself, but if everyone contributed, the impact could and would change the world.
A case in point is feeding the hungry. It's sad to note that there is enough food for everyone on the planet, but the uneven distribution of it allows for thousands to die each day from starvation. A little investment in those in need could make quite a difference.
It's a simple thing to pick up a few extra items at the grocery store and give to a food pantry. If you attend church, many have receptacles in which those items can be placed. Many churches will also accept donations to purchase items for the local pantry, and funds given directly to organizations that feed the hungry are always appreciated. There are also Internet sites that allow you to purchase livestock to help a family become independent farmers in a third world country.
We can't deny there is need around the world and at home, and there will always be until we make an investment in our fellowman. The reward of making the world better for someone else is priceless. We, who have been blessed, have that power and responsibility. There is no waiting for this investment to make a positive yield.
Thanks for visiting my blog. :)
ReplyDeleteYou know, another way to organize a food pantry is to do it through distribution from a Care & Share. I'm not sure how most of them work, but our local Care & Share is arranged so you can purchase food from them. All you pay is the gas for the delivery trucks. Our food pantry purchased 2500 pounds of food for only $89. This is one of the best ways to utilize donations. The church accepts donations of $5 a month to the food pantry budget and then that money goes to purchase from Care & Share. The money goes a whole lot farther than spending $1 on a can of soup at the supermarket and giving it to the food pantry. Giving it to our Care & Share instead allows the food pantries to save money. It's amazing how that works!
One quick recommendation is that maybe you flesh out your blog a little more, add a widget for followers and what-have-you. You can find those in your layout options. I think you've got a lot of great things to say, but sprucing up your blog will help draw more readers. :)
Thanks so much for the info, Carissa. I'll check out your suggestions.
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