I haven't approached the SA about it, but I know they are desperate for "kettle people". I like how much they do with their local soup kitchen, and strong general assistance with housing, bills, etc for those in need in the area. I have donated before.
I know that if ever I did need financial help, I may turn to them.
I don't want to be hypocritical, as I am a staunch dissenter to federal gov "faith based" intiative $ support, which isn't the SA's fault, but I don't want to in any way encourage it, and am not interested in helping gain financial strength to any people that I feel in political arenas would like to see us humanists out of the picture, and the serious (Christian) religious overtones sometimes with those they help. Oh, this just goes in circles - my desire to do good for my fellow people vs. that which may stand against my principles - which are to do good...
A few words of wisdom please?
*People involved with the SA are ~especially~ desired to answer!
2007-12-01 15:45:36 · 10 answers · asked by tigerlilly 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
I should add that this is something that I considered for years, and today, my mother was going to WalMart to pick up one item for her bf, which she hates as much as I for their foul business practices, & wanted me to go with her, despite my personal boycott of the place (I'm 30). Went in w/ my mother to get one item, and I walked out with $75 in gifts for 2 disadvantaged kids off of the SA "Angel Tree", which I do feel good about it, despite the place. I guess if I can do that & feel right about it, its no different to bell the kettle outside, no?WalMart brings a whole other level of questioning to it for me. What if the location the SA needs me at is a WalMart, is that not supporting the store's image? One "for the good of humankind" I can take, but a double against my own true morals? I'd be in dangerous territory in my heart, but what do you say?
I am willing to be convinved, as I know that I could bring in more money with my personality than I could donate with my pocketbook
2007-12-01 17:16:34 · update #1
Thanks for the interesting question.
I too am opposed to faith based initiatives. But at this time of year, I always do a little bell-ringing for the Salvation Army. (And by the way, I am Jewish.)
I have a special sort of fondness for the organization, and this is why: I used to work in a very poor neighborhood in New York. It was a burned-out section of town, with lots of drugs, crime, and families struggling to survive. I worked mostly with the kids there. It was sad for them. The schools were horrible, the cops avoided the neighborhood, and there was no place to play. No little league, no Boy Scouts, no summer camp.
But there was a terrific youth group at the Salvation Army center. They were the only organization willing to do something for the kids in that area. They did good work, without ever asking about one's religion or ethnic background.
Now I live in a small town, where the SA has only a tiny rented office. And that's probably okay, because here the people are relatively prosperous, and we have many other organizations serving the community. Nevertheless, they do step in to help people who need urgent assistance, and who "fall through the cracks" at other agencies.
Obviously, the ultimate decision is yours. But perhaps you will find this perspective helpful.
*** Regarding the Walmart issue: I don't think that your efforts will bring any new business to the store. If anything, after folks they contribute to the SA, they'll have less money to spend on Walmart's crappy merchandise :) [I do my bell-ringing at K-mart. Similar situation.]
2007-12-01 16:25:40 · answer #1 · answered by yutsnark 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
No!!!
just from the question, not the esciption i have to say this:
I am also an agnostic,
But If you're raising money for a good cause GO FOR IT
it shouldn't matter who you're dressing up as or what it represents, it's about getting the money to the charity.
But if you're still questioning it, try working at a foodbank through the holidays, or just volunteering in other ways...
2007-12-01 15:51:05 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
You're just agnostic, not a Satan worshipper! Religion is only a belief anyway. SAs don't know anymore than you or atheist. Just lie about it and say you are a Christian, its no big deal. You're helping some people you don't even believe in; that's good!
2007-12-01 16:01:39 · answer #3 · answered by Neomaxizoomedweebie 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't think its wrong at all. If everyone regardless of what they believe help out it will only go to make the world we live in a little better. Go for it. I really would encourage it.
2007-12-01 15:49:31 · answer #4 · answered by Zach 3 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Agnostic is different that atheist-at least you believe there is a possiblitiy of God existing (and He does). Why not give the local office in your area a call, and see what they have to say?
Take care.
2007-12-01 15:50:50 · answer #5 · answered by SAK 6 · 2⤊ 1⤋
If you're interested, this is a popular forum for Salvation Army members, you may find more answers here...
http://christianforums.com/f452-cyber-corps-salvation-army.html
2007-12-04 08:14:01 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
which is more important to you?
Helping people?
OR
Following your beliefs, even if it means hurting others?
Most religions (like radical Islam especially) would answer beleifs are more important. Do you want to be like religion?
2007-12-01 15:51:09 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
i dont believe in god or any kind of religion, but this dosnt stop me from donating and helping other people in need.
2007-12-01 15:49:43 · answer #8 · answered by turk6060 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
you don't hve to believe in God to give service where it is needed and help those who are less fortunate than you. I say Go for It!
2007-12-01 15:48:30 · answer #9 · answered by palmermom3 6 · 4⤊ 0⤋
What does harassing people and begging for someones hard earned spending money have to do with religion?
2007-12-01 15:54:54 · answer #10 · answered by Sleepyriggles 4 · 1⤊ 3⤋