Take A Cold Shower

People will find something to bitch about no matter what.  I've seen some negative comments about the ALS ice bucket challenge, and you know, I do think it's a little silly and a publicity stunt, of sorts.  So I can understand a little skepticism.  It's for a good cause, though, so Miss Mox and I did it, and we're donating money.  It raises money, and awareness, for a disease that's often forgotten about. I remember hearing about ALS as a kid (as Lou Gehrig's disease,) and I assumed it was under control by now, even curable.  I was surprised recently to see how little money they were getting.

There are two aspects of opposition that I've seen.  One is "oh, they don't spend much on research and helping people."  But they actually do.  Salaries are a very small percentage of their budget, and probably now are even less since donations have increased by such a huge amount.

The other thing is, "we're wasting so much water on this."  Um, okay.  Yes, a little.  I used about a gallon; others use more.  And we do need to be careful with it, and there are places in the world that are desperately short of water.  How is my using a gallon of tap water in Ohio hurting anyone anywhere else?  Can I ship it to California?  Someone said "jeez, people in Detroit have water issues and this is such a waste."  Well, of course that's a different issue entirely.  But I still can't send them my water.  Everyone has to make compromises in their life.  I felt a gallon for a little awareness was a good trade.  I conserve water in general around the house, and we have a rain barrel for the garden.  I drive a very fuel-efficient car, try not to waste electricity, etc.  I could always do more.  So could everyone else.  We use lots of ice in this country at summer cookouts, and we water the heck out of flower beds.  I suspect some of these people whining about people needing water (that my water will not help with anyway) take long showers and drive SUVs.  So, please, take a close look at yourself before scolding others, especially when they're doing something to help people.

I've donated money for clean water initiatives; I want to help people in dry regions. But when you try tell me to look at the big picture, open your eyes a bit wider.  Be aware and realistic.  Put things in perspective.  I challenge you to look at your own wastefulness, and at how much all charities spend on helping people. These are all good things to think and talk about.