This is for people who "get it", as in people who understand real life situations. Did you know?

Question

In my youth group (7 & 8 graders, I'm in 8th), we talked about people in Africa and other 3rd world countries who don't get much to eat at all. A piece of bread and half a cup of dirty water is all, sometimes, not even that. But even more shocking is the statistics. My youth director told us to look up at the clock and clap every 2 seconds. She had us do that for a while and then she said "every time you clapped your hands, a child, most likely under the age of 5 has died due to starvatioin." That is 30 children a minute folks. I was just in shock. Sometimes we don't take the time to realize how much we have, and we take it all for granted. What do you think of this fact?

I guess I should have explained, too, that we did talk about what is going on right here in America too. See, the youth director used to work at a soup kitchen in Maine so she's seen it and also she went to El Salvador (sp) when she was in high school on a mission trip and this lady gave their group her only loaf of bread so we know what goes around here. She is planning on taking us to a soup kitchen, some where around here, to help serve food and see first hand what it is like and what these people go through. We are going to bring in a canned good for youth group for the food pantry for the next couple of weeks. Also, I am in Girl Scouts, and we donate to the food pantry too. So, I hope that clarifies some things.

Answer 1

You're right, we don't take the time everyday to be thankful for how much we're blessed with. Your posting should be read to every child on Christmas morning before the presents are opened. May our Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ continue to bless you and the others for your love and compassion towards others!!!

Answer 2

There are people in the U.S. and similar countries experiencing starvation as well as intentional abuse and neglect. Many here do not have adequate access to needed health care. The world is so full of problems. I am glad to see that you are among those who care. Together, we might make a difference in these situations, one step at a time.

Answer 3

its very very sad,and ever since i was a lil kid(I'm 40ish) i have seen ads on TV for money to help,why is it still so bad i wonder,we have poverty in our own backyards and i wonder how it get so bad in a country that's not 3rd world.Maybe just maybe we can all help someone somehow,anywhere,even if its a small contribution of food or donations.AND don't forget the animals and shelters,the world is in crisis all over. cheers and thanku for sharing+your teacher is great.

Answer 4

I think it is terribly sad. I "get it" as you put it. I have driven through the Appalachians in WV and from a distance it was beautiful. However get up close and you will see kids from your own country in almost the same position. They have never been out of their "holler". They don't own shoes, they have no indoor plumbing. It is just as sad to see people in our own wealthy country suffering. Maybe your teachers should spend some time showing what is going on right outside your own back door!

Answer 5

This situation has existed for centuries. As long as humans continue to live as instinctive's rather than intelligent beings it will continue.

It's called natural selection and all the money, food or concern in the world will not stop it from continuing.

Answer 6

That is shocking and quite a powerful tool your teacher used to wake up others. Thanks for sharing that. makes me wish there was more we could do. On the other hand, when will we as Americans get it RIGHT and take care of those starving children in our OWN country!?

Answer 7

I think you are a very compassionate and wise 8th grader who will bring a lot to society through your intelligence and caring.

Answer 8

Thanks (((Shadow Strike))) You took the words right out of my mouth. How can we ever help others, if we are unwilling to help our own?

God Bless