The images are a bit embarrassing.
In cities across the United States, people fighting in line over a chance to get the new Air Jordan $200 plus sneakers. Fights. Stabbings. Pepper spraying. Arrests.
Now, contrast that with an interview I conducted at about the same time. A story that got much less attention. One that I'm sure was being played out across the nation as well.
In Hazlet, New Jersey, a decade-old charity called RAINE, answering letters from needy children. Making sure each has a Merry Christmas. At least one gift under the tree.
Many of them also have clothing on their Christmas list. Not $200 plus sneakers though. Basics. Like bras. And socks.
And one, heartbreaking case, RAINE co-founder Patti Dickens told me. A boy, nine or 10 years old, asking for a blanket and a pillow for Christmas.
Which Christmas story - the fights over sneakers or the desperate pleas of needy children, ought we be focusing on?
In cities across the United States, people fighting in line over a chance to get the new Air Jordan $200 plus sneakers. Fights. Stabbings. Pepper spraying. Arrests.
Now, contrast that with an interview I conducted at about the same time. A story that got much less attention. One that I'm sure was being played out across the nation as well.
In Hazlet, New Jersey, a decade-old charity called RAINE, answering letters from needy children. Making sure each has a Merry Christmas. At least one gift under the tree.
Many of them also have clothing on their Christmas list. Not $200 plus sneakers though. Basics. Like bras. And socks.
And one, heartbreaking case, RAINE co-founder Patti Dickens told me. A boy, nine or 10 years old, asking for a blanket and a pillow for Christmas.
Which Christmas story - the fights over sneakers or the desperate pleas of needy children, ought we be focusing on?
TIP:
Enter the amount, and click "Tip" to submit!
Julie Morse
Ande Bliss
Barbara Joanne
Marilyn Sands
Susie Lindau
RomanticPoetess
Salon.com
Comments
I'm not thoroughly sure here if the real problem is government gone wild.. or We the People gone dormant. At least here in the U.S.
For the rest of the world? The Gods alone (may) know (or maybe not).
Kudos to those at Raine and like orgs that are looking outside of their personal concerns, devoting effort to address those of others in need.
Rated for the bigger picture.