The Right Questions
Question: How many spoonfuls of medicine does it take to get rid of a cough? Answer: Possibly an infinite amount if you only treat the symptom, and not the cause of the problem.
It matters what the real question is, doesn’t it?
When we look at social deficiencies such as poverty, violence, racism, or abuse, most charities do a great job of treating the symptoms. Those services are vital because real needs are met. We’ve all been glad for those people who feel our pain. But we need to go deeper than treatments.
May I suggest that a great way to address such social problems is through building character. Character addresses the root of the problem.
Positive character development helps us become the kind of people that resist hurting others for our own perceived benefit. Being a person of good character will certainly mean that the cost (or effort) of doing the right thing is on you and me; not the next person. It may be kindness: skipping a few coffee breaks to provide meals for slum children in India. It may be courage: defending a kid at school who is picked on.
Corruption such as bribery costs people money, oppresses the poor—especially children, who can’t afford the services they need.
Social services may stop the leak, but they can’t keep a boat from falling apart.
Do you see social justice squeezed by corruption in your community? Tell us more.
