Fraud or Faithful?

Having just visited the mission two nights ago for dinner, I really appreciated the blog by John Gaudi about 'visiting the locals'. His question is a good one, "Isn't this really just a form of tourism?" it's also a tough one. I felt like a fraud there in some ways because it seemed like the communtiy knew we really didn't need to be there. I hoped no one would ask why we were there because then it would have been hard to explain that even though I am an advocate; we are really just on a 'dare' so to speak. Words like 'consumer' voyeur', 'tourist' all spin around in my mind. It is easy to feel guilty isn't it? Why do I have so much? Why do some have it so hard? All difficult questions for sure, but one thing I have found is that guilt is not a good motivater long term.

If this challenge simply raises awareness about appropriate food bank donations, and the insufficiency of food for those needing assistance then it has been a good thing. If this challenge results in a significant change of view on the social stigmas of those who access support services and who are on ODSP, or OW then this has been a great thing. If this challenge takes those of us who have participated, witnessed, listened and supported; beyond our guilt, then we have stumbled onto something that is absolutely life giving to all of us. When we see each other as equal, more alike than different, we don't need to feel sorry for anyone because we understand we are all in the same boat. I celebrate with those who celebrate, I grieve with those who grieve, we share the same air, we can share our burdens. My guilt will not empower anyone and will only continue to reinforce our differences. When we extend help to someone not because they are poor but simply because they are our neigbour then we offer what cannot be donated, supplied or bought and that is dignity, respect and empowerment. If this challenge could do all that, then it could change the world.

Kathy