Honestly, I don’t get the whole Christmas consumerism thing. I don’t understand why any rational person would stand outside in the dark and cold for hours waiting for a store to open. They wait so they can buy stuff that will be discarded or sent to a landfill in about six months. All that energy, time, and money could be spent doing some good for the planet but we seem to be especially greedy at the most spiritual time of year.
This year why don’t you try something different? Something that will teach your kids and friends about giving for good instead of getting for themselves? Do something that saves lives, saves our ecosystems, saves our wildlife, and helps save non-human animals from untold suffering.
DONATE.
It’s easy, it feels good and you can donate from your computer, right at home. Most NGOs and charities offer a nice acknowledgment card or e-mail message. Put your money where it can help instead of lining the pockets of retailers who sell merchandise that rapes the planet and impoverishes millions.
Here’s a list of some of my favorite places to donate, either in my name or as gifts for friends:
- Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary
- Sea Shepherd Conservation Society
- Wildlife Direct
- The Wilderness Society
- David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
- Animals Asia Foundation
There are many more, of course, and all in need of donations to continue their good work. This year stop spending your money on stuff that provides only momentary happiness and use that money to do some real, lasting good. The planet and all its animals will thank you.
s.
Filed under: animal rights, bears, conservation, endangered species Tagged: | animals asia, christmas donations, christmas shopping, david sheldrick wildlife trust, poplar spring animal sanctuary, sea shepherds, why shop when you can donate, wilderness society
