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Today is #GivingTuesday, a global day inspired by Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday with the intention of celebrating generosity and giving. In learning of #GivingTuesday, I heard my inner cynic come out. “Oh geez, here we go, we’ve commoditized one more thing! Now, even non-profits have to ‘get in where they can fit in.”

bodhi giving tuesday graphic

And, it’s true, culturally we do that … everything we can get our hands on we will work to package and sell. I think Chris Rock said it best on his recent visit to Saturday Night Live.

In America, there are no sacred days, because we commercialize everything. Look what we did to Christmas. Christmas is Jesus’ birthday. Now, I don’t know Jesus. But from what I’ve read, Jesus is the least materialistic person to ever roam the planet. No bling on Jesus. Jesus kept a low profile. And we turned his birthday into the most materialistic day of the year. Matter of fact, we have the Jesus Birthday Season. It’s a whole season of materialism. Then at the end of the Jesus Birthday Season, we have the nerve to have an economist come on TV and tell you how horrible the Jesus Birthday Season was this year. ‘Oh, we had a horrible Jesus’ birthday this year. Hopefully, business will pick up by his crucifixion.’

chris rock youtube video screen shot

So, yes, even giving to your favorite non-profit organization has been exploited. But you know what, I have gotten over my cynicism. I want you to give to us. I really do. Bodhi Spiritual Center is an organization worthy of your gifts. We have a big idea! We envision a world where EVERY human being awakens to the God within. And ya’ know what, if that happened, things like greed, hatred, poverty and violence would dissolve. If we really knew the God Presence in each of our brothers and sisters walking down the street, IMAGINE how different the world would be.

“I have gotten over my cynicism. I want you to give to us. I really do. Bodhi Spiritual Center is an organization worthy of your gifts. We have a big idea! We envision a world where EVERY human being awakens to the God within.”

Each day our Members, Volunteers, Leaders, Practitioners, Core Council, Spiritual Council and Staff give themselves to our mission: We awaken individuals to live their inherent power and purpose. Through unconditional love, creativity and conscious community, we reveal Oneness in service to the people of Chicago and beyond.

I realize you may give to our mission consistently. I realize you may give to our mission generously. For that we are deeply grateful. #GivingTuesday is distinct from your current practice of giving. #GivingTuesday is an opportunity to consider a special gift. Something above and beyond your everyday practice. Add us to your holiday gift list. “Happy holidays Bodhi … what a difference WE make!”

Your love and support of our mission is amazing! Our future is bright. WE ARE Building the beLOVEd Community. With your year-end giving of generous financial support we will close 2014 strong. We are prepared to make 2015 our best year yet and would be thrilled to know you were our partner in making that happen!

Give Now
With love and gratitude,

Lola

Lola Wright

Lola Wright is the Spiritual Director at Bodhi Spiritual Center.

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