10-21-2008, 04:51 AM
I am reminded of some of my experiences with Habitat for Humanity, a program I worked with for twelve years.
On one hand I learned a lot about the situations of people in need. The human condition has endless variety of difficulties. The cases of abuse and fraud occasionally occur and get lots of attention. The rest, the large majority, suffer honestly and quietly.
On the other hand I had become somewhat jaded on the topic of human generosity. All I saw of the youth on the news was crime and indulgence. Then I got to meet and enjoy groups of volunteers - especially teenagers... the ones who don't make the news and turn out to help with good spirit and aloha.
It is important to look beyond the obvious to appreciate the whole.
Punaweb moderator
On one hand I learned a lot about the situations of people in need. The human condition has endless variety of difficulties. The cases of abuse and fraud occasionally occur and get lots of attention. The rest, the large majority, suffer honestly and quietly.
On the other hand I had become somewhat jaded on the topic of human generosity. All I saw of the youth on the news was crime and indulgence. Then I got to meet and enjoy groups of volunteers - especially teenagers... the ones who don't make the news and turn out to help with good spirit and aloha.
It is important to look beyond the obvious to appreciate the whole.
Punaweb moderator
Assume the best and ask questions.
Punaweb moderator
Punaweb moderator