HELPING VS. ENABLING

One comment I (Russell) have heard often from humanitarian missionaries is how difficult it can seem at times to render service to, and in most cases fund the purchase of supplies for, needy recipients in a wise and appropriate way.  On first glace it seems rather simple: observe the situation; assess the need; formulate a solution; and execute a delivery plan.  However, the lesson we learn, some learn it more quickly than others, is that our solution to their problem will never be the best.  In many cases our solutions will not even work; and sometimes may even backfire with unintended consequences.  And in some cases what we consider to be a problem needing to be fixed may not even be perceived as a big concern of the intended beneficiaries.

The best projects are those in which the beneficiaries both identify the need and formulate a viable solution; and then lead the execution of the plan with our missionaries filling in with service and funds where needed after allowing the beneficiaries to do all they can on their own.  In this manner we not only help meet a need but also help teach the beneficiaries self-reliance and self-respect.

I believe this principle of how to best render service is applicable in almost all settings.  I wish I had learned this lesson before I started having children.  It would have made me a better parent.

Recently I have watched as others, here and back home, have rendered meaningful well-intended service only to have that service go unappreciated or worse by the recipients.  My heart goes out to those who have labored so hard to serve and do as the Savior directed to ”love thy neighbor.”