SHOWING LVE THROUGH GIVING AND SERVICE BY HAILEY MINTON
In the 1830s, many Native Americans were forced from their homeland and were relocated to territories west of the Mississippi River. The journey they took is infamously known as the Trail of Tears, due to the thousands who died from the extreme cold, starvation, and harsh conditions they faced. The Choctaw people were one of the tribes affected, and they tried their best to make Oklahoma their home, despite losing many beloved family members along the way. Sixteen years later, news reached the tribe of the Irish Potato Famine. A disease called late blight decimated the potato crop which was the staple food source for most Irish. People were starving. An estimated 1 million people died and another estimated 1 million people emigrated from the country. The Choctaw saw their suffering and viewed it as unnecessary, similar to their own trial, and it inspired action motivated by empathy. The tribe donated $170, which is equivalent to about $5,000 today. The amount was small, but the love behind the donation had bound these unlikely nations together. Their contribution made headlines in Ireland. It was extraordinary because it came from very far away and from a group who didn’t have familial ties with the
24 ogdenconnection.com | February-April 2020
people who were suffering. The Irish people remember the seemingly small amount of money gifted as being legendary. Their bond remains strong and inspiring. We don’t have to look across the globe to find magnificent examples of charity, though. In fact, according to an article published on Oct. 3, 2019, Ogden was ranked the most charitable city in the country, with Salt Lake City coming in as the 6th most charitable city! MagnifyMoney, a personal finance website created by LendingTree, reported that 87% of residents in Ogden itemized returns with charitable donations on their tax returns that amounted to about 6.9% of the residents’ income. The study suggests cities that are religious centers and cities that are highly charitable seem to be linked. Beyond the regular citizens who donate their resources to charity, there are some individuals and organizations that are taking action to shape our communities into better places. We have highlighted just a few, and we hope you take advantage of opportunities to show love through giving or service. Not only can it make others’ lives better, but it can bring more joy and fulfillment to your own.
