Happy Holidays From Michelle Obama

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The Obamas have portrayed themselves as caring, charitable people. But I also note that they specified the charities that are near and dear to their heart--not a general plea for charities that might be near and dear to my heart. In other words, this is her launch into the use of her role as First Lady Elect to promote her husband's image as caring man.
In Hindu philosphy, there are four ways to know God--study of religion, caring works, renunciation, and loving--but all must eventually come to loving. This recognizes that not all charitable work is done out of a loving heart, much comes from a desire of the ego to rationalize or aggrandize, or impose, or patronize. These are not charity, these are an illusion of giving. It is better to be charitable than not be charitable--but it does not always mean that one is a loving, caring person. It is easy to give a can of food or money--it is much harder to give in order that another might no longer need.
Is it good to give to food banks? it's okay and helpful in the short run. It would be better to teach people how to get their own food. It would be better to create an environment where everyone can move to not needing to use a food bank--such as promoting financial learning and small business opportunity. But alas, handouts win more votes.
Why not support Heifer International, a charity that buys animals for hungry families in poor areas with the pledge that the receiving families will give offspring to others--and so create a chain of sustainability. Maybe our soon-to-be First Lady would like to expand her horizons.

MontanaMountainWoman of MT 2:46AM December 24, 2008

Paul, you helped build a grassroots movement ? Gee, I thought you were a journalist, not a community activist. Turn in your press pass.
This well intentioned message would have had some effect had it been sent weeks earlier, Paul. All the packages from real-life patriots to soldiers left weeks ago to get there by Christmas, Kwanza, Hannuka. Sorry Paul, nice gesture, but effete and too late.

Peggy Costion of MD 3:15PM December 23, 2008

Michelle's request for us all to help others less fortunate and families of those in the military is entirely appropriate. I only wish she had sent it a week ago. The response might have been better.
I have donated a lot of time and gifts this year. 2009 is going to be rough for so many - including those who have always been self-sufficient. It's the least anyone can do who still is employed and in good health.
Christmas is about a man who tried to make the world a better place. Let's try too.

Dorfy of SC 2:43PM December 23, 2008