Every time I read another declaration from a US Republican about refugees, I feel the need to balance it out by making a charitable donation or suppressing a bit of gossip – something that’s an effort toward doing good for my fellow humans.
Donald Trump says all Muslims, even tourists, should be banned from entering the US. Michelle Fiore says she’s on the verge of flying overseas to shoot all Syrian refugees in the head. I find myself wanting to fly overseas, too, but because I have a greater sense of the lottery I won by growing up in Canada. Whenever I learn about what less fortunate people are going through, I’d like to help.
One group that’s helping people help others is called Sharing Humanity. It’s for anyone who’s starved for adventure and realizes that it’s up to those who have lots to help those who have little. It organizes teams of volunteers who go to various countries such as Bangladesh and Senegal, and simply help the locals with whatever they need – from starting up an orphanage to taking physicians and veterinarians to treat sick people and animals to whatever else, wherever else.
Sharing Humanity was started by a Muslim woman who earned her law degree in the US. She says the true spirit of Islam inspired her. People of all ages and faiths have been involved. As a volunteer, you’re responsible for getting yourself to and from the locale. The charity takes care of the rest. Sharing Humanity has zero overhead. Its marketing and awareness budget is funded by personal donations that are completely separate from charitable donations, meaning 100% of what’s given to keep the organization going, does just that. While the racist and xenophobic among us spew their poison, I find it important to focus at least some of my attention on people who are trying to do some good for others. They’re out there and they may not be as loud as, say, Donald Trump, but I have to believe their numbers are greater and their efforts are more important if we’re going to survive together on this big, blue ball.