Now that I am on maternity leave, I spend abit more time at home (the rest of the time is at my parents house).
The downside of being at home is that I can’t avoid the people knocking on the door – I feel guilty if I don’t answer.
One group of people I wish I could avoid are those that are canvassing for charities and asking for regular donations.
Don’t get me wrong, I regularly give to charity and have direct debits set up. However sadly due to my income dropping I have had to cancel some.
So when they come knocking on the door I feel so bad when I have to say sorry but no. The work they do clearly needs supporting. I have had a cancer charity and a heart charity asking for donations. I have wanted to donate, but my financial situation is such now that I can’t commit to any more regular donations. I hate saying no and it makes me feel guilty. But with so many charities out there, who do you support?! We can’t donate to every single one.
I know charities need to raise money but I am against them knocking on your door as I feel it puts added pressure on someone. Yes they have to raise money, but knocking on my door and in some ways pressuring me into donating is not something I agree with.
Maybe I need to stop answering the door……………….
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Every Muslim has to give in charity.” The people then asked: “(But what) if someone has nothing to give, what should he do?” The Prophet replied: “He should work with his hands and benefit himself and also give in charity (from what he earns).” The people further asked: “If he cannot find even that?” He replied: “He should help the needy who appeal for help.” Then the people asked: “If he cannot do (even) that?” The Prophet said finally: “Then he should perform good deeds and keep away from evil deeds, and that will be regarded as charitable deeds.” – Sahih Al-Bukhari, Volume 2, Hadith 524
Asalamu alaikum,
I think you have a choice who you open your door to, you may want to check the Shariah ruling on this inshAllah.
By the way let me know your thoughts on 'Greatness Under Worn-out Garments' when you get some time. Would appreciate what you think and feel?
Take Care
Charity is something done of our own accord. If it becomes a headache then it does not remain a charity at all. It doesn't mater how little or more money you contribute. What matters is the feelings that you have making such contributions. Charities shouldn't be a burden.
Hope everything's going well Foz!
Lots of love!
There are so many charities it is sometime quite difficult to say no to one when we know we are helping another one. What is strange with charities is that they easily make you feel bad. It's a fact we have to make our own choice and contribute to helping others the way we wish.
Hope all is well for you and your family Foz. Stay well!