Toxic Charity

 The recurring problems with one-way donating are at the heart of Robert D. Lupton's book, "Toxic Charity," which he wrote. 

Even though I think giving is an incredibly important part of our lives, sometimes we cripple the receiver by giving so much that they end up being "harmed".When we give, our intention is never to harm the recipient but to help them; but, what actually happens is that the recipient becomes dependent on the donor.

Robert continues by describing the following:

1.When you give once, others will appreciate it.

2. By giving twice, you can build expectation. 

3. Create expectations by giving three times.

4.After four donations, something becomes a right.

5. Five "donations" will create dependency.

When people know they can turn to you for whatever they now lack, one may argue that being dependable is a positive thing.Unfortunately, over time, this method de-empowers people, and it ultimately hurts the people we meant to aid.

This is seen at all levels, from the person to the community to the nation.Consider the majority of African nations, which are perpetually the recipients of international aid.We are now so reliant that we will eventually lose our "independence" since whoever provides for you will also be in control of you.

It's a widely held misperception that sharing resources will eliminate inequality. Contrary to what some people may think, this is not the best strategy to eradicate poverty.In my opinion, in order to achieve certain things or particular degrees of wealth and material accumulation, we must not only be "beggars," but also good stewards, and we must work on our abilities, characters, and habits.

[I'm not at all saying that we shouldn't be givers]


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