Inspired by Jeffrey's post, "Controversial Issues," I decided that I should share an opinion of mine that has come with a great deal of thought.
Most who know me, are aware that I served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for two years in the West African nations of Liberia and Sierra Leone. These two countries are among the most impoverished in the world; with some of the lowest GDP per capita and Human Development Index ratings in the world. For those not familiar with these measures, mind boggling abject poverty is as close to an accurate description as I can muster. For two years, I lived and loved among people who had next to nothing in regards to earthly possessions.
When I returned to the United States, it was my initial response to feel guilty for everythingwe had—to walk into into a Wal-Mart for the first time since being home was an experience that I would have a difficult time putting into words. However, after a lot of thought (and an Econ 110 class at BYU) my perspective changed. I realized that levels of wealth, health, and lifestyle are not zero sum game. What do I mean by this? In the most simple terms, the fact that our things are nice in America, does not mean that there can't be nice things in Africa (If you have questions about that and would like to read more, I strongly suggest reading the book Naked Economics). I also realized that guilt is not a meaningful and productive emotion. I discovered that rather than feel guilty for what I had and the circumstances and opportunities that I have been blessed with, I needed to feel both a pronounced sense of gratitude and responsibility. I believe there is profound truth in the oft-considered trite statement "Where much is given much is required."
So this is my invitation to all: Don't feel guilty about your circumstances, love them. Feel deep gratitude for all that you have been blessed with, start thinking about ways that you can give back, and then commit to making the world around you a better place.
This is awesome! I love your perspective, Jeffrey! I know that we are put in a position where we can make an influence in the world and change lives! That is awesome about your mission in Africa as well! I love the insight you bring into the topic.
I think it was in class, where you brought up the point of first being full, then helping others once one is full. Because everybody is so different, what do you think is the level we need to reach until we can help out people?
I think we can always do something. Maybe not much, but something!
I also agree that it's very "in" right now to be critical and guilt-trip ourselves in the US and other Western countries for having plenty. But negative emotions don't usually translate into compassion or service. So like you said, feel gratefull and joyful, and then start giving back!
Jeffrey! I love your outlook. I'm involved with Students for International Development and am currently taking a class called the International Political Economy of Women, and all the time I am bombarded with disgusting figures of destitution that I want so badly to fix. Your blog reaffirms my goal to not wallow, but use my extremely blessed circumstances to improve those of others. Not zero sum! :)
Jeffery - 10 points for using a picture of a cornucopia. I will be keeping score.
I also want to pat you on the back for what you said. What a mockery it is to GOD to loathe yourself for what blessings he allows you, right? But at the same time what an inspiring step it is to see what we can share with others.
So what do you sat about "communism" or the idea of spreading the wealth? SPECIFICALLY, is it based in guilt or in gratitude that flows over to others?
Most who know me, are aware that I served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for two years in the West African nations of Liberia and Sierra Leone. These two countries are among the most impoverished in the world; with some of the lowest GDP per capita and Human Development Index ratings in the world. For those not familiar with these measures, mind boggling abject poverty is as close to an accurate description as I can muster. For two years, I lived and loved among people who had next to nothing in regards to earthly possessions.
So this is my invitation to all: Don't feel guilty about your circumstances, love them. Feel deep gratitude for all that you have been blessed with, start thinking about ways that you can give back, and then commit to making the world around you a better place.
This is awesome! I love your perspective, Jeffrey! I know that we are put in a position where we can make an influence in the world and change lives! That is awesome about your mission in Africa as well! I love the insight you bring into the topic.
ReplyDeleteI think it was in class, where you brought up the point of first being full, then helping others once one is full. Because everybody is so different, what do you think is the level we need to reach until we can help out people?
I think we can always do something. Maybe not much, but something!
ReplyDeleteI also agree that it's very "in" right now to be critical and guilt-trip ourselves in the US and other Western countries for having plenty. But negative emotions don't usually translate into compassion or service. So like you said, feel gratefull and joyful, and then start giving back!
Jeffrey! I love your outlook. I'm involved with Students for International Development and am currently taking a class called the International Political Economy of Women, and all the time I am bombarded with disgusting figures of destitution that I want so badly to fix. Your blog reaffirms my goal to not wallow, but use my extremely blessed circumstances to improve those of others. Not zero sum! :)
ReplyDeleteJeffery - 10 points for using a picture of a cornucopia. I will be keeping score.
ReplyDeleteI also want to pat you on the back for what you said. What a mockery it is to GOD to loathe yourself for what blessings he allows you, right? But at the same time what an inspiring step it is to see what we can share with others.
So what do you sat about "communism" or the idea of spreading the wealth? SPECIFICALLY, is it based in guilt or in gratitude that flows over to others?