2. In a 2013Timemagazine article,
columnist Joel Stein wrote that
Millennials (those born between
1982 and 2000) differ
significantly from previous
generations. Research shows that
they lack the empathy that gives
them a particular concern for
others. Now, the recent
pandemic offers Millennials and
others who are self-absorbed the
opportunity to develop their
unselfishness and restore their
humanity.
3. When disasters have struck in the
past, it has often been ordinary
citizens who have responded with
acts of charity. For instance, after
the 1906 disastrous earthquake of
San Francisco, residents sought
shelter across the bay in
Oakland.Dorothy Dayand her
family lived there, and Mrs. Day set
up tents and a soup kitchen; also,
they offered any spare clothing
they had.
4. In response to the 1918-1919
influenza that took many lives of
U.S. citizens and new immigrants,
theAmerican Red Crossmade a
tremendous contribution as it
provided food, medical supplies
and aided influenza victims
families with other services.
Today, people can donate blood to
the Red Cross and contribute to
the organizations response to the
pandemic (Visit www.who.int. or
call 1-800-RED-CROSS).
5. Becoming engaged in
philanthropy during the pandemic
is a very affirmative action, one
which increases a persons sense
of self-worth for having helped
others, as well as a greater sense
of belonging in the community of
man. Other lessons can be
learned from being involved in
philanthropy.
6. John Donne famously wrote,
that No man is an island/unto
himself. Citizens of the world
all are part of humanity, and
people need to help one
another. During times of
economic downturn or
pandemics such as COVID 19,
people also learn that
generosity is needed even
more because the less
fortunate are dependent upon
charity.
7. There is little doubt that focusing
upon the welfare of others
benefits those who are helped, as
well as enriching those who give
of themselves, whether it be their
time, food, money, or
possessions. For, in their acts of
charity, people feel a sense of
belonging in the world. Also, in
times of crisis, people often
exercise their better qualities,
such as unselfishness, generosity,
and concern for the betterment of
their fellow citizens and their
country.