Philanthropy in spite of it all
I consider myself warned. I have launched my charitable foundation and stand prepared for an onslaught of bad will. Surprised? Havent you seen what happened to Oprah Winfrey? First, she was gracious enough to give new cars to her entire audience to celebrate an anniversary of her show. The response was a series of complaints that some of her audience could not afford the sales tax on her generous gift, or that she was merely a publicity hound. Next, she started a school for girls in Africa. She was criticized for being too exclusionary, too elite-ist, as well as being accused of being wasteful with her own money. Yes, Ive been warned.
Philanthropy is a slippery slope. It invites criticism. No matter how well intentioned, it makes people uneasy. It sometimes makes the giver look foolish. No one wants to be like John Rockefeller who became a living caricature by handing out dimes to everyone he met on the streets. The nicest thing I could find written about it was uttered by Oscar Wilde who called philanthropy
"the refuge of rich people who wish to annoy their fellow creatures."While I admit to smiling at the quote, I embark on my new endeavor with great optimism and enthusiasm. I know what Im in for, but Im going to do it anyway.
Check out the new website at: www.myrongushlakfoundation.com
By Myron Gushlak