On the way to the shop there was a very interesting conversation in my car which made me realise that the idea of not 'having' things is a very abstract concept for my children. Master B said that he thought giving toys was a great idea but wondered where the toys went as there was probably not anyone who would need it in our town! In my line of work I know this is not true and it got me thinking.
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My children are not over-indulged but they do not want for anything. They have the basics and more. I do not want to take things away so how do I foster compassion in them while a less fortunate life is not their reality?
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I have been doing some thinking and while there are many options for sponsorship, donations of money and goods or time, especially at Christmas, I would like this to be relevant to my children so I think that helping other disadvantaged children in Australia is what I would like to pursue.
It is certainly food for thought, especially as I did not realise that, even though we talk about those less fortunate, Master and Miss B do not really understand or relate this to themselves or their community. Thanks to Mr Google I already have my eye on The Smith Family organisation as they are Australia’s largest national education-oriented charity, supporting disadvantaged Australian children to participate fully in their education and giving them the best chance at breaking the cycle of disadvantage. They run learning support and mentoring programs to help children in need to fit in at school, keep up with their peers, and build aspirations for a better future for themselves. Education is something very close to my heart and part of my children's reality as well.
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Have you had conversations with them about what we can do?
What do you think is the best way to foster compassion for others less fortunate?
I'd love to hear what you think!
Kate xx
Very thoughtful & interesting post Kate. I am not sure I have answers but we have also donated to the toy run, dropped non perishable food items at the BDT collection point & donated to the Salvos. This has started some conversations with the younger members of the family! Have a great week...the countdown is on.
ReplyDeleteWell done Jane. Yes, hold on! We are getting to the pointy end of it all now :/
DeleteToday I want to get stuck into my kid's toys and give 80% of them away! I'm not sure who else to give them to but I'll check out to see if we have a local Smith Family charity nearby! I will show the kids which toys I'm giving and get their blessing. I also want them to give away one of their new Xmas presents to someone less fortunate. As a former journo I have done and seen a lot of good charities so I'm fully aware of the work they do and I want my kids to be aware also.
ReplyDeleteGood plan Emily. I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the amount of stuff in my house. How do you think your kids will go giving up a new toy?!
ReplyDeleteI haven't really given much thought about this with my girls. Our local supermarket has a gift donation bin, I think I will buy a gift with them and explain why we are donating. I have seen the Smith Family ad and have written it down to look into their organisation further x
ReplyDeleteI often think about it but I am determined there will be action this time!
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