Philanthropy

Long words can impress as well as depress. We dislike speakers who bore audiences with unusual, indecipherable, unpronounceable and showy words, sentences, paragraphs, and worst, entire speeches. On the other hand, we react to speakers (or the written word) that is overly simplified, vulgar, undignified and superfluous. Tough at times being a speaker or writer, isn't it?

This word philanthropy is usually understood, to a degree, but it is still worth a look. Here is a typical definition: Philanthropy (noun) is the effort or inclination to increase the well-being of humankind, as by charitable aid or donations. Then, Philanthropy etymologically means "the love of humanity"—love in the sense of caring for, nourishing, developing, or enhancing; humanity in the sense of "what it is to be human," or "human potential.

So far so good. No arguments here. However, let's look at a couple of dimensions often overlooked. Philanthropy should and does benefit humans but it also benefits the animal kingdom and nature (Flora refers to plant life and fauna refers to wild life). These too are worthy of philanthropic generosity, not merely because of their intrinsic value but because of their importance to humankind.

This was impressed upon me as I thumbed through Condé Nast Traveler's World Savers Awards article (September 2011) lauding those who benefit Education, Health, Poverty, Preservation, Wildlife and Doing it All. This can be done in so many ways, collectively as well as individually. And these benefactors do deserve recognition.

Another Condé Nast story When The Rich Go Wild was also revealing. It wrote about a handful of wealthy environmentalists who are snapping up the planet. Actually, what is happening, often behind the scenes, is astounding, worthy of print and acclamation. Literally, millions of acres of land in various part of the world are being bought up for preservation (saving the planet) rather than left for possible exploitation.

As I probed, I discovered that another individual was recognized. Only he wasn't a wealthy environmentalist. He had to borrow a modest sum to do his part in saving the planet. So, even a non-wealthy person can be a philanthropist, even a lowly senior as well as a prosperous one can help enhance humanity making our world a better place. Philanthropy is not only an occupation of the wealthy. Even the most underprivileged among us can and should help increase the well-being of humankind.

That's good news, isn't it?