Perspective

I assume Alissa won't mind that I've pinched her banner for my blog. I want to give you a little perspective on things. Let's be honest, our world is pretty crap right now. Between natural disasters locally and abroad, our charity coffers have been tapped dry. Struggling economies have depleted our reserves. We've given directly, then we've been asked to give in taxes. Then we gave just a little bit more when we could. Sometimes when we donate, we aren't even certain that our contributions are making it to the people who need it most. We have to trust that what we are doing will make a difference.

Today, I put a little of my trust in Action Kivu. Many generous souls in the crafting community have donated fabric, patterns and even a quilt to encourage you to make a donation which will enrich the lives of women in the Eastern Congo by teaching them to sew. I'm asking you to forget about the prizes. Don't even think about them... instead think about what you can give up this month to find at least $10 to donate.

If you live in Australia, for $10 you'd get less than half a meter of a fabric. Maybe you'd get two fat quarters, if you are lucky. You couldn't even pay for a flat rate envelope being sent from the US. $10 wouldn't buy you a skein of Tosh or Malabrigo. It barely buys you lunch. I suspect somewhere in your typical "craft buying budget" you could find an extra $10. Forego the extra half meter of fabric. Skip the skein of yarn. Trust that you're making a positive difference in someone else's life.

gold stars to everyone who considers donating. rockstar status to those who go above and beyond. if that's not enough to lure you in, then take a look at the prizes...