I have a confession to make.
I spent money on my marathon photos. They are not cheap, as most of you know. I can't even say it was an impulse. It took me about a day to decide to get them. And I did, and I feel hypocritical.
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| Homelessness in Schools David McNew/Getty Images (KQED) |
So what is the problem? Well, the problem is that here I am writing posts about not asking for gifts for myself but donating to charities instead. Here I am posting on Facebook about ideas of giving without spending money. And here I am, wasting money on something as trivial as this.
It did not take long for me to get whacked on the head. About an hour later, I went for a run and listened to Forum on the local NPR station. The program was about homeless children in schools. As I listened to the heart wrenching stories of kids who come to classes hungry or leave not knowing where they are going to sleep that night, I felt ashamed. It is so easy to point fingers at those filthy rich 1%; I do that all the time. But when I look in the mirror, the picture is not so pretty either. I am not saying that I should be denying myself fun things in life, but c'mon, so much money for a few photographs of me running so I can post them on Facebook and show them to my friends?
For the longest time I've been saving money for a half way decent road bike. The bike I have is a cheap mountain bike, heavy and really not that great. I've been borrowing from the bike fund to donate money here and there. After listening to one especially sad story of a single mother who needed money by noon today so she, her sick son, her niece she's been caring for would not end up on the streets, I reached out into that fund once again. Heavy, wide-tire bike means a better workout, right? A new bike can wait. Mine, and other listeners' donations mean shelter for this lady and the kids she is taking care of.
Maybe there is hope for me yet.
12 comments:
People working for those photo companies depend on the money to support themselves. No, you don't absolutely HAVE to have them, but just as supporting a charity that gives shelter to people in need, you are supporting someone. Don't feel guilty about that. Besides, you can't help everyone, so there's no point in beating yourself up over it. :) Choose the causes most important to you and support them, that's what its all about.
Don't feel guilty.
HYPOCRITE!
P.S. we all meet in the Church basement on Thursdays. I'll save you a seat.
I don't understand why race photos are so expensive, although a lot of races are in support of social causes. It is absolute nonsense!
Have a nice running weekend!
Ewa, pls do not feel guilty! You accomplished a wonderful thing by finishing that marathon AND broke "the curse"! PLUS, the point is to help others but also help ourself. You have helped others plenty by giving of yourself & your money. That does not mean we can't enjoy as well. Honestly, I wish I could give to so many causes but I can't.. BUT we don't have to deny ourself too. You give what you can but you deserve as well!
I agree with the others. I just bought a new sleeping bag. Did I need it? No. But I like to think that when we buy things, we are ensuring that people like us don't get laid off. I think that life should be a little fun too. I work my butt off for the money I make. And I totally would have bought marathon photos if I didn't look like a dying whale in them.
Hi Ewa! I do agree with Karen. These photographers need to earn a living too. If nobody buys their pictures, then you could donate to their families as a charity, because they would need it.
But, more so, you purchased a gleaming moment of your personal triumph. I think that is very valuable. And it says a lot about you and your values that is good.
:-) Marion
Ewa--You have such a big heart and you do lots of good for the world. Don't begrudge yourself a picture purchase. You are one of the few I know who has got it all figured out right! I admire that so much!
You have such a big heart Ewa. You should not feel guilty at all. You give a lot more than 99% out there already. Photos here are also expensive and even digital copies are expensive. I buy sometimes but the photo must be very special.
Do not feel bad about buying race photos for an accomplishment well deserving of such.
The pictures are memories and the memories are priceless. You made the right thing.
I agree with what most of the commentors have said.
I am married to the President of the Ohio River Road Runners Club and this group puts on races all year long. Each and every one of the members are volunteers including those that take pictures.
You are supporting the people who have volunteered their weekend for you to be able to run the race. Perhaps if you think of it that way will help you not feel guilty buying your pictures.
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