Generosity without Affluence, and Butterflies

There are many of us who would like to see things change. The vexing question comes down to How? and Where to begin?
Or, to put it another way, Where do we find the butterfly to bring on the tsunami?

I know that people can be generous even when they have very little. That was the paradigm of life for vast numbers of Americans during the years of the Great Depression. My parents showed me innumerable examples when I was growing up.

I live in a country now, Australia, that takes national pride in its generosity towards others. I will not say it is perfect, since they have some of the same problems as the US with mental illness, aging, and disability. But the national heritage is to help each other.
It's something I no longer see in America, and it saddens me.


Are there significant forms of charity and compassion that are best done by individuals? Yes, certainly.

Simple friendship, Spending time with others, laughing and taking in the events of the day, can be terrifically healthy both physically and mentally.

Giving one's time to someone who is ill or elderly is a challenge. There's no sense in getting flowery about it. It's a difficult gift to give. But the knowledge that someone may/will do the same for you someday is deeply enduring.

The best treatment system for the mentally ill is to bring them together for activities. It is a common method in all levels of treatment, even drugs and alcohol. There is no reason that such simple activities as painting, crafts and writing should require professionals.

If someone is having a hard time - going through a divorce or the death of someone close - one of the best things for them is to simply take them a meal. Trauma and depression are exhausting. Preparing a meal during those times can be too hard. Even fast food is a tremendous relief.

The key to all these simple actions, done for ages throughout the world, is to remember that a gift is given. IOW, it does not come with a price, ties, or other obligation.

Do any of these actions of generosity and compassion require affluence? No.
But they build a sense of community, a belief in humanity, and - perhaps - a common faith by practice.

Maybe if we, the United States, displayed such generosity as a nation by individuals without affluence, we can change the paradigm.
I can easily imagine technology to help.