Recently I've noticed various needs and areas, including Darfur, labelled as 'fashionable causes'. I'm not particularly happy with the phrase as it seems to reflect - and more seriously, provoke - cynicism and a disparaging tone. But maybe that is just my impression.
I understand the underlying point - some 'causes' are better known and publicised than others, which are just as deserving but do not get this exposure, and therefore the same degree of support. I believe it is important to bring the 'hidden' dark areas to light.
I still don't like the word 'fashionable', however, implying people supporting the well known causes are just jumping on the band wagon. Who are we to judge the motives of others? God knows the heart; he also sees the deeds. I feel we need to be careful with how we word things - not to undermine the good that has and will be done.
Ironically I am the sort of person that hates to be seen as 'jumping on the band wagon'. I don't really hold much truck with what's fashionable and what's not. I put my energies into particular areas because those are the ones God has placed on my heart. Let us not become so obsessed with how we brand our 'causes' that we cease to work for them.
Pondering further, I think of those who talk about things that 'never go out of fashion'. What would I like to see not go out of fashion?
Kindness, justice, compassion.
Today: 4/10, high
1 comment:
Amen to that! I'll add love, hope, and faith, too. :-)
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