Philanthropy is not unconditional love. You give ostensibly to help but the act is also supposed to make you feel good. If you can’t give it away you can’t get it goes the old saw. If you traffic in spirituality it's a no brainer but on an everyday basis many people like being praised for their generosity and don't want to be criticized for being parsimonious tightwads. Conversely, one can feel blackmailed. There's something superficial about all these people who make big contributions so their names can decorate a bench in some park. If you don't give to the homeless person then you're a heartless miser--especially if you're affluent. What then about the anonymous donation? Knowing one is being altruistic is a reward in itself (don't forget the deduction if you're giving to a 501c3).The only problem then are the whisperers, the accusers who are wondering why you're cheap?
read "Current Events" by Francis Levy, The East Hampton Star
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