Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Weekly Scribbles

Assalamualaikum (Peace be upon you),

If you read my last post, you probably noticed a sense of frustration: how long does it take to write a pilot project proposal. Today I've decided to share my whiteboard scribbles (which I often do, to help me think), to firstly share some of the thoughts that  I've had in the past few months or so, and equally so, to push myself to get things done faster.








 

1. Dignity
How can anyone deal with a problem like poverty, without considering the dignity of the poor? Poverty is not only about a lack of finance, but also affects ones dignity, whether it is the stigma of being poor or a sense of feeling of being excluded due to the lack of wealth. Any financial or welfare-related program should put dignity in the forefront of their consideration; how do we ensure that all the processes preserve or restore the dignity of those in poverty?

2. Institutionalize the solution (i.e. welfare program)
Individual solutions are great, but it could go further if it were institutionalized, in the sense that it becomes a culture or a norm of some sort, so that somehow when we pass away, somehow that solution which was institutionalized stays longer, to benefit those in need, even if the individual who provided that solution or program isn't there any longer. At least someone benefits from it.

3. Be creative & thoughtful
Perhaps sometimes we can become so used to poverty, we react in some rigid way. Instead, we should whoever we are, whether you're a teacher, a business man or whatever profession you may be, think of creative ways on how in your field you could help those in poverty, even if it is seemingly a minor token. Times change, solutions may too.

Take care.

Peace,
Umar


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