tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743965701368495248.post357565098428542648..comments2023-03-08T09:03:08.377-06:00Comments on Wherever He May Lead...: Shipping Items to GuatemalaTerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10251319452790708684noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743965701368495248.post-86344236438039643542010-06-05T18:32:23.819-05:002010-06-05T18:32:23.819-05:00Terry, well written and well said. I'll also...Terry, well written and well said. I'll also admit that I have made donations in the past for international missions projects and felt I did something good. I think here lies the problem: the act made ME feel good, but I never thought through how my donation actually impacted folks in the country. And shouldn't that be the filter; the impact and not how I felt about myself? The book that helped to bring this to light for me is When Helping Hurts. Everyone should read it because your post highlights the title. I now save my clothes donations for local ministries that are requesting them.RJhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01322915016744051624noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743965701368495248.post-38469337184555165512010-06-05T10:40:21.818-05:002010-06-05T10:40:21.818-05:00You have many valid points in this post, and I do ...You have many valid points in this post, and I do see your point. However, I am one of the people who sent items to Guatemala. I do not feel that by doing this I am destroying the economy. I do not have $100 to give to relief efforts. However, I did have well over $100 in items to send. These will clothe several children, blankets will keep them warm, and they will have shoes to wear. We all have to do what we can to help. <br />The economy in the US is suffering as well. However, noone speaks of us donating things here. It is perfectly accepted. but, I know I feel good when I am able to give things that I can no longer use to someone who is less fortunate than I am. But, I can't go and hand them money. It feels good to do for others. <br />So, yes, it is expensive to get extra bags to Guatemala, and/or ship things there. But, I know that the woman who is taking the donations that she collected and driving three hours and packing a crate is feeling good today. She too is in missions work. She is so grateful for what they are able to hand out, as are the people in the villages. As we discussed, they can give these donations to several families. However, they are not able to raise the funds to give to that many. Also, her hours are spent in the village working with the families not shopping. That too is worth value. There are many sides to this.<br />I do agree that buying there supports their economy. However, while you are there eating in restaurants, picking up goods at the local food store, buying souveniers, all supports their economy too. <br />Just some food for thought. As you have said, don't send me hate mail for my views. Just some thoughts. Good luck on your tripBobbihttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07620227823593955955noreply@blogger.com