271. Money Doing Good
A few years ago I received a letter in the mail from the Fellowship of Reconciliation (FOR), a long-time peace group with national headquarters in Nyack, NY. This mailing pictured the places of conflict around the world where the FOR was present and working for peace. In each location pictured, there was also a shadow of a person. Finally on the last page the shadow was explained: “You may not be able to go to each of these places yourself, but your contribution helps us to go and represent you through your shadow.”
It probably was said better but that’s my memory of the gist of it, and I was so moved as I looked at these pictures of places all around the world and in each picture was that shadow—and the shadow could be me.
I’ve remembered that concept and use it regularly as I decide where to send my contribution dollars. I have a regular presence in Georgia as I contribute to Jubilee Partners in their work with refugees. I do good work in the environment via The Nature Conservancy. I have a very specific presence in a community in Nicaragua through Sister Cities. I get excited about my presence in a number of countries where United Methodist Women’s projects are working. I’ve supported Centurion Ministries and my monies have helped to free innocent persons from prison.
And my shadow continues to move around the world through the charities I support. Good job shadow!
