Over the past few months a local university student has been providing free music lessons to youth every Friday at the Gateway Centre. This week, one of the participants told me that she is addicted to piano.
Usually, I do not celebrate when I hear of a new addiction but this one is different. We thought that exposure to the creative arts is a good idea for youth who find themselves at risk. (actually for anyone) Our hope was to provide a positive means of expression to those we serve. This young woman has found something of meaning to her.
Wouldn't it be great if we could develop some more positive addictions? How about: Addicted to finishing school? Addicted to keeping a job? Addicted to maintaining a safe place to stay? Addicted to helping others?
Got any other positive addiction examples?
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
What are you thinking?
Have you ever walked past someone who looks homeless and thought negative thoughts? I have. (Clean yourself up! Get a job! You must be lazy! etc.) Have you ever walked past a stray cat or dog and felt compassion? Have you ever walked past a wilted plant and given it some water?
You can make a difference by changing your thought pattern or even smiling at someone.
The following excerpt comes from the CharityVillage newsletter for March 8, 2011.
A report recently released by The Salvation Army finds that many Canadians have a troubling attitude toward poverty and the poor. The study is being released in conjunction with the launch of The Dignity Project, a campaign designed to educate and inform the public about the challenges facing society’s most vulnerable people. Key findings include:
For more information, visit: http://www.salvationarmy.ca/2011/03/01/salvation-army-launches-the-dignity-project-to-inspire-educate-and-activate-public-support/ and http://www.raisingtheroof.org/
You can make a difference by changing your thought pattern or even smiling at someone.
The following excerpt comes from the CharityVillage newsletter for March 8, 2011.
A report recently released by The Salvation Army finds that many Canadians have a troubling attitude toward poverty and the poor. The study is being released in conjunction with the launch of The Dignity Project, a campaign designed to educate and inform the public about the challenges facing society’s most vulnerable people. Key findings include:
- nearly 50% of Canadians feel that a family of four could get by on $10,000 - $30,000 per year or less;
- nearly half of all Canadians feel that if poor people really want to work, they can always find a job; and
- nearly 40% believe people who live in poverty in Canada “still have it pretty good”.
For more information, visit: http://www.salvationarmy.ca/2011/03/01/salvation-army-launches-the-dignity-project-to-inspire-educate-and-activate-public-support/ and http://www.raisingtheroof.org/
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