I sometimes do things or donate money without anyone knowing where it comes from, and sometimes I do things or donate and talk about it or let it be known in some other way. I have no idea which is better. I feel good if I do something without any sort of credit because it seems a more sincere gesture but I also feel that if others know of a generous act perhaps they will be inspired to do the same. Which way do you think is better?
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5 comments
Feel free to reply to any comment by clicking the "Reply" button.I think it depends on your definition of "better". In some cases it may be better to be anonymous, in others the opposite. Like: if you want to donate to a GoFundMe for someone you know - anonymous.
BitFlipper
Level 8
Apr 16, 2020
1
I think it depends on the situation and the donee. The nuns did a job on me with their lesson that a good deed doesn't count as a good deed if you tell someone about it. That doing so nullifies the charitable thought behind it. I think some of that stuck with me. But promoting an organization can be as advantageous to them as a donation. So my rule of thumb is not speaking about personal-level donations (to people or families or groups) but I'll promote my support for an organization I think deserves help.
Lauren
Level 8
Apr 16, 2020
2
Both work quite well, I think that it is a case of trying to be sensitive, and using the best ploy in each individual situation.
Comically in the UK we have an annual poppy day for the benefit of former service personel, and I often refuse the little paper poppy you are offered to show that you donated, in part to save them money and also because I feel it is immodest to show off your charity. But of course that means I have to donate again to the next seller and the next.....
Fernapple
Level 9
Apr 16, 2020
2
I also feel it's a bit immodest to show off your donation but on the other hand it makes me feel very good to help someone anonymously. That in turn makes me wonder if I am being selfish by not trying to inspire others by letting them know I donated. Maybe it's best to keep doing both since I can't decide.
It’s when people make a great show of their charitable giving that the motive comes into question I suggest. As when I giant corporate cheque walks in the door from a corporation on a charity telethon.
Widow’s mite comes to mind.
Geoffrey51
Level 8
Apr 16, 2020
0
It's up to yourself.
But if it is done for advertising and tax purposes as is the case with some corporations it does open the motivation up to question.
LenHazell53
Level 9
Apr 16, 2020
0
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