Let me start this post by saying that I probably have an unhealthy addiction to Starbucks. I just love the drinks, the atmosphere, meeting friends there, being there alone. I've had to make a concerted effort to cut back lately as I can't justify the money (nor the calories!) spent. Really, whoever came up with Starbucks is a genius.
Here's my beef...the Red program they are currently doing, where they will donate 5 cents for every drink bought to helping Aids in Africa. At first glance, this seems like such a good thing...and it is. But, 5 cents? Really? Why not 10? Or even a dollar? Starbucks is so filthy rich and could really make an incredible impact on a very real problem.
Deep breath. I'm starting to realize how much I've been living in ignorance to the problems of most of the world. We are the wealthiest nation ever to exist in the history of mankind. And we are so secluded, so used to it, that we don't hear the cries of the poor. For most of my life I've felt bad for the dying in Africa and donated a bit of money (no amount that really hurt).
When Rebekah cries for food, I can't get the bottle made fast enough. I hate it when she cries out of hunger. In Africa, mothers watch their children STARVE TO DEATH every single day. All of a sudden this stuff is becoming real to me. It brings me to tears. I'm realizing that I can't stand for it anymore. I can't ignore it anymore. It's time for me to stop being selfish. Curtis and I have been talking that maybe it's time to give up some things-eating out? My cell phone? Our apartment for a less expensive one? Starbucks?
I'm both dragging my feet at the prospect of living differently, and so very excited to be apart of loving my neighbor as Christ is calling us to, bringing Heaven to Earth. How scary, yet exciting to be a part of the Kingdom of God!
Will I ever enjoy Starbucks again....for sure. Let's be honest. Their white mocha will surely be in Heaven. Will I enjoy it every 3rd day of the week? No. I just can't anymore. I can't be the rich man walking by Lazarus every day, too full and happy to notice his poverty, to care, or to realize that my actions now surely affect eternity.
2 comments:
Preach it sister!! I think that yours and Curtis' decisions are wonderful!!
I will say that although I completly agree with you I am also very greatful that Starbucks is having the Goes RED day. Think about all the people in this world who could care less about giving but will not think twice about buying coffee. And with the economy as bad as it is...and Starbucks doing as awful as it is (they have closed over 600 stores worldwide) I am thankful they are giving even .05 per cup sold. They could have chosen to give nothing! More likely than not Companies (when doing awful) cut charities out FIRST!
All in all I couldn't agree with you more. But in the end I think this is a great way to reach the people that wouldn't normally give. I also think that every penny counts, and although I am sure over all Starbucks could afford to give way more...I am glad they are giving society a chance to be a part of something awesome!!
P.S I know Starbucks is using this as ploy to make more money...but I say WHATEVER...as long as someone benefits from it in a wonderful way, I can't complain too much. No matter what people are gonna buy coffee....why not buy for a reason this time!
~Cia
Love this post ;) I couldnt agree more. We are still trying to figure out ways to give more and more and more. It makes me sick to think about all of the children that were starving yesterday when I was so full I could barely move. I was honestly thinking about cutting out eating out, or atleast saying 1-2 times a month and then all of the money we would have spent could go to Heifer.
BE THE CHANGE...
<3
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