Awake!, June 8, 1993

Awake! — June 8, 1993

Source: jw.org

Contents

Page Two

Can Music Really Harm You?

Harmless Fun or Mental Poison?

Modern Music—Avoiding the Pitfalls

Crossword Puzzle

How Can I Cope With My Disability?

A Coach Safari to the Center of Australia

Science—Mankind’s Ongoing Search for Truth

The Cape Buffalo—A Cooperative Beast

Charitable Contributions—A Christian Obligation?

Watching the World

From Our Readers

Don’t Miss It!

Page Two

Page Two

MODERN MUSIC Harmless Fun? 3-11

Modern music, such as heavy metal and rap, has come under criticism. Is all such music bad, or is some of it harmless fun?

How Can I Cope With My Disability? 13

Young people who have a disability want to know how they can cope.

Charitable Contributions​—A Christian Obligation? 26

What is the balanced view of contributing to religious or other organizations?

Can Music Really Harm You?

Can Music Really Harm You?

IMAGINE this: An acquaintance at work invites you to dinner in his home. You accept. As the evening passes, you learn a number of shocking facts about your host. He has a sadistic nature, exhibits suicidal tendencies, uses vulgar language, and promotes Devil worship. Now, would you be inclined to spend another evening in his company? “No!” you reply.

Further, what if this acquaintance recorded his twisted beliefs and attitudes that night and gave you the tape? Would you expose yourself to repeated playings of it? Not likely.

However, the fact is that millions today expose themselves in this way. As a result, many who listen to this music adopt the thinking and behavior that it encourages.

What music are we referring to? Degrading influences can be found in virtually any style of music. Whether one prefers classical, jazz, or some other kind of music, there is a need for caution and selectivity.

There are, however, certain forms of music in which the most unwholesome of subjects are explicitly featured. This presents a special challenge. U.S.News & World Report describes the primary theme of heavy metal music as “teenage nihilism, complete with liberal doses of violent sex and occasional thoughts of suicide.” Dr. David Elkind speaks of some rock groups that are “so out of line with respect to obscene language and behavior that they reflect negatively on the whole rock music industry.” In some areas certain albums are even labeled with a warning of their explicit content.

Are people just overreacting to music that is not to their personal liking, or is there a real cause for concern? Let’s take a close look at some of the rock music that is now reaching large segments of the public through albums, music videos on television, and live concerts. Examine how people are affected by it. Then judge for yourself whether this entertainment is harmless fun or mental poison. Is it something you or your family should keep close company with or even be exposed to?

Harmless Fun or Mental Poison?

Harmless Fun or Mental Poison?

At a live rock concert, one of the performers placed a woman in a box and proceeded to chop into the box with an ax. Fake blood spurted up into the performer’s mouth, which he spit into the audience.

In 1984 a 19-year-old boy shot himself. His parents claim that his suicide was spurred by the lyrics of a rock song called “Suicide Solution.”

A teen magazine published accounts of the perverted sex carried on by a band in their dressing room as well as in the studio during the recording of music. A rock album contained an obscene poster of male and female genitals.

VIOLENCE, suicide, and sadistic sex​—these are only some of the unwholesome topics featured in rock records, in videos, and at live concerts. When issues about these degrading programs are raised and even go to court, artists and recording companies try to explain away these objectionable features. For example, an obscene painting is now said to be support for a statement about the “mental corruption in American Society and how it is ultimately destroying us.” Similarly, in some music, words that are clearly metaphors for the male sex organ (such as guns or knives) are now claimed to be literal.

Artists and recording companies may escape judicial penalties, but are people really fooled? Are you? Can you deny that violence, sex, and the occult are vital ingredients in the hard rock music that sells today?

Heavy Metal and Rap

Down through the years, many categories of rock have developed. Two styles, heavy metal and rap, have recently come under attack for shocking indecency.

Heavy metal is generally energetic, highly amplified electronic music with a pounding beat. According to Time magazine, “metal musicians play to the alienated fantasies of a mostly white, young and male audience by portraying themselves as disillusioned outsiders who have turned their backs on a corrupt civilization.” Much of heavy metal is designed to shock. Some of its lyrics are unprintable. A medical journal in Texas observed that many of the expressions in heavy metal glorify “unconventional attitudes concerning sex, violence, hate, and the occult.”

The violence associated with heavy metal is another concern. For example, when one show had to be stopped because the singer became ill, the audience rioted and even set fire to the arena. At another concert three youths were smothered to death when thousands of fans surged toward the stage, knocking down people in front and then trampling them.

In rap music, also known as hip-hop, a vocalist (or vocalists) chants rhymes over a rhythmic background, often provided by a computerized technique known as sampling. Most rap music is created by black musicians but marketed to audiences both black and white. A few rap messages are positive, taking a stand against such things as child abuse and the misuse of drugs. Nevertheless, most rap centers on rebellion against authority, violence, hatred of women, and racism. Many pieces contain profanity and lewd descriptions of sexual activity.

Violence has been a problem at some rap concerts. At one concert, 300 gang members attacked the audience, which struck back with metal chairs until the police came and broke up the concert. Forty-five persons were injured.

Last year, the New York State Sheriffs Association called for a boycott of all firms owned by Time Warner, Inc., until the company removed the rap song “Cop Killer” from store shelves. The head of the sheriffs’ group, Peter Kehoe, said: “This recording spews hate and encourages and glorifies the killing of police officers. As a direct result of this song, cops will be killed.” Eventually, it was removed from the market.

Are There Effects?

When musicians sing about evil or even act it out on stage, what effect does this have on listeners and viewers? Consider the following observations and experiences.

Dr. Carl Taylor, an assistant professor of criminal justice at Michigan State University, asserts that rock stars are “promoting a life-style. . . . The band members do influence the kids, very much so.”

One boy who survived a suicide attempt said that the music lulled him and his friend (whose suicide was successful) into thinking that “the answer to life is death.”

In 1988 three teenagers killed a friend just for the fun of it. One of them claimed that the fascination with death began with heavy metal music.

Following one rap concert, teenagers went on a window-smashing rampage. The public safety commissioner of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, said: “There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that rap music spurs violence.”

A study of youths and satanic cults revealed that many of those involved in Devil worship are heavy drug users and listen to heavy metal music, which glorifies drug use and encourages sexual immorality. As a result, vulnerable young people are attracted to satanic cults.

Of course, when youths are moved to drug abuse, crime, or suicide, there is likely more behind such behavior than music. Breakdown of family life and of human society in general doubtless plays a major part. But the music can serve as a catalyst, a means of encouraging vulnerable young people to do things they might not otherwise even contemplate. Do people already disheartened by life’s troubles need music that encourages them to give in to destructive inclinations?

The point is that bad music can serve as mental poison to its listeners. Remember, the messages in such music are all the more powerful because they come from stars, heroes, who are virtually worshiped by their fans.

What About You?

What music do you listen to? Perhaps you are already cautious about the music you choose, and that is commendable. On the other hand, if you are among those who listen to music of a degrading or even questionable nature, have you been adversely affected? Even if your behavior has not changed, can you honestly say that your attitude has not been affected for the worse? After all, repeated exposure to unwholesome topics can desensitize you, causing you to feel that the subjects are not so bad.

Consider the example of a young man who tried to blend his life as a Christian with a steady diet of heavy metal and rap. He was not driven to such actions as murder, suicide, or Devil worship. But note how his attitude was affected. He declared: “This music is extremely animalistic. It allowed me to operate in a calm and collected way while giving vent to the most degraded and violent leanings. . . . I lived in a fantasy world of hate. No day went by without my seriously contemplating suicide.” He decided to make a complete change in his listening habits. When he did, his attitude showed great improvement.

Defenders of degrading music will argue to justify the dark side of rock music. But what are your conclusions? Can you close your eyes and ears to the extreme degradation of its subject matter? Could you attend concerts such as those described earlier with no fear for your safety? And what about the connection between such music and the shameful activity of its performers and listeners?

If you care about your health, you likely shun foods that might hurt you even if they are tasty. Unwholesome music, whether rock or any other style, is a threat to your mental health. Would you want to expose yourself to mind-poisoning entertainment? Of course not. So, what can you do to have a sane, balanced view of this matter? Please consider the points presented in the next article.

[Box/​Picture on page 6]

What Is Devil Worship?

Devil worship, encouraged by some heavy metal lyrics, is not harmless fun. Texas Medicine/​The Journal explained that such worship includes practices ranging from “benign ritualistic activities to drinking blood from self-mutilation and animal sacrifices.” Satanic cults proclaim “an allegiance to the devil. Specific rituals are used to channel power from Satan to the followers. . . . The dogma of freedom of choice and will means doing whatever you want with no God, no guilt, and no conscience.” As a result, some engage in criminal activities without shame.

[Picture on page 5]

You wouldn’t put garbage in your stomach. Why put it in your mind?

[Picture on page 7]

Should you feel comfortable attending such an event?

Modern Music—Avoiding the Pitfalls

Modern Music​—Avoiding the Pitfalls

SOME argue the pros and cons of censoring rock music. Others debate its deleterious effects on teenagers. But if you are a Christian, these considerations are secondary to the central issue: How can music affect your relationship with God?

The Christian’s guide in life is God’s Word, the Bible. It contains principles regarding every aspect of life, including entertainment. The Bible’s directives protect obedient ones from what is unwholesome and harmful. Furthermore, God’s approval is dependent on obedience to his Word. Therefore, the principles in God’s Word guide a Christian’s selection of music. (Psalm 43:3; 119:105; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17) What, then, are the Scriptural guidelines that help us in our selection of music?

The Need for Balance

Ecclesiastes 7:16 cautions: “Do not become righteous overmuch, nor show yourself excessively wise. Why should you cause desolation to yourself?” Before writing off a piece of music as bad, ask yourself whether the issue is perhaps one of personal taste. Remember, you may dislike a piece of music, but that does not necessarily make it bad music.

The other side in this matter of balance is presented in Ecclesiastes 7:17, 18: “Do not be wicked overmuch, nor become foolish. Why should you die when it is not your time? It is better that you should take hold of the one, but from the other also do not withdraw your hand; for he that fears God will go forth with them all.”

What, then, if a Christian listens to music that encourages violence, racism, immorality, Devil worship, and suicide? Ephesians 5:3, 4 specifies: “Let fornication and uncleanness of every sort or greediness not even be mentioned among you, just as it befits holy people; neither shameful conduct nor foolish talking nor obscene jesting, things which are not becoming, but rather the giving of thanks.” Yes, those who desire friendship with Jehovah cannot make unwholesome matters their entertainment. They will not reason that as long as they do not do these bad things, it is all right to be amused by them.

It is not just the lyrical content of a song that makes it good or bad from a Scriptural standpoint. What spirit does it encourage? Please read Galatians 5:19 to 23 in your Bible. Which listing best describes the spirit of the music that you listen to? If the music resembles “the works of the flesh,” then Jehovah’s view of it is clear enough.

If a Christian attempts to combine his life of sacred service to God with degrading musical entertainment, he will learn that they are simply incompatible. It is like drinking a mixture of fruit juice and poison. The fruit juice won’t keep the poison from killing you. The words at 2 Corinthians 6:14-17 make it plain: “Do not become unevenly yoked with unbelievers. For what fellowship do righteousness and lawlessness have? Or what sharing does light have with darkness? Further, what harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what portion does a faithful person have with an unbeliever? . . . ‘Therefore get out from among them and separate yourselves,’ says Jehovah, ‘and quit touching the unclean thing.’”

These, then, are the Scriptural issues that face those who desire a close relationship with God. If you value Bible principles, take a close, hard look at the music you listen to. Carefully go through your collection of records and videos. Discard those that violate Bible principles. If in doubt, discard them anyway. Likewise with live concerts and reading material​—weed out anything that has no rightful fellowship with righteousness.

The Tendency to Make Excuses

If you are drawn to music that is borderline or that crosses Scriptural guidelines, it may be hard for you to face the issue objectively. Some make excuses in an effort to defend and justify their position of compromise. If you find this to be true in your case, stop and think. Is your reasoning sound, or does it simply reflect an emotional attachment to the music? Consider the following arguments offered by some and note that, under scrutiny, such arguments turn out to be only excuses.

It is safe for me to listen to this group because its members take a stand against drug abuse. But does the group take as firm a stand against other acts of badness, such as fornication, violence, and disrespect for authority? “A little leaven ferments the whole lump,” says Galatians 5:9.​—Compare James 2:10.

Life in this world is so unjust. Can we really blame these bands for expressing their anger at world conditions? The Bible encourages righteous indignation against the evils of this system but points to the Messianic Kingdom as the solution.​—Daniel 2:44; Matthew 6:9, 10.

The Christian’s bright hope is different from the dark pessimism of many musicians who advocate nihilism as the solution to mankind’s distress. Really, the world’s anger is destructive and animalistic, reflecting the wisdom of the system of things.​—Romans 12:9; James 3:15-18.

The musicians are skilled, even classically trained. But the skill with which a musician performs is irrelevant to the weighing of musical content against Bible principles, is it not? King Solomon was skilled in numerous fields, including the field of music. But when he apostatized from true worship, the Bible reports, “Jehovah came to be incensed at Solomon, because his heart had inclined away from Jehovah.” Likewise, Nimrod was a skilled builder and hunter, but he and his associates met with God’s disapproval. Why? Because Nimrod was “a mighty hunter in opposition to Jehovah.”​—1 Kings 11:9; Genesis 10:8, 9.

A few of the band’s songs are innocent, including some soft acoustic ballads. The danger here is that an innocent tune can lead one to purchase and listen to an entire album, most of which may be clearly unhealthful. Just as a cup of water cannot wash away a pile of mud, an occasional innocent song does not change the overall spirit of a degrading album or band.

The stars do not really worship Satan or live immorally. They’re just acting on stage. The fact remains that the music they use to entertain their audiences is sprinkled, if not saturated, with badness. Colossians 3:8 directs Christians, not to be entertained by such things as anger and abusive speech, but to “put them all away.” Paul told the Ephesians to “quit sharing with [the sons of disobedience] in the unfruitful works that belong to the darkness, but, rather, even be reproving them.” Is a person who is entertained by works of darkness in any position to reprove those who practice them?​—Ephesians 5:6, 11.

I don’t listen to the lyrics. I hear only the melody. But lyrics can register in the subconscious mind and create problems later on. Though we think information has left our minds, it may not be forgotten at all. How dangerous, then, to expose ourselves willingly to messages that are in direct opposition to the counsel at Philippians 4:8, that we keep our minds fixed on what is chaste, lovable, and praiseworthy.

Remember, too, that whoever “wants to be a friend of the world is constituting himself an enemy of God.” This is because the world of mankind alienated from God and the spirit of the world are the products of Jehovah’s chief Adversary, Satan the Devil. Now think about it. Would a man appreciate it if his wife displayed a photograph of a former lover even if she claimed that she had no special feelings for him but that the picture was simply for decoration? No, he would want it out of the house and out of her mind. What if we take into our homes and hearts music that serves the purpose of Jehovah’s Adversary? Does it really make a difference to Jehovah if we claim, “I’m only interested in the melody; I ignore the lyrics”?​—James 4:4; 1 Corinthians 10:21, 22.

Act Decisively

If you have been exposing yourself to music that highlights wrongdoing, what is your real reason? You may not agree with the evil ideas, but the music itself may be so appealing to you​—the beat so addictive, so gripping—​that you find it simply irresistible and do not want to give it up.

But doing the right thing is not always easy. We are especially tested when God’s standards direct us to let go of something to which we are emotionally attached. Will we rationalize that our case is exceptional and keep “limping upon two different opinions,” or will we act decisively against what Jehovah hates?​—1 Kings 18:21.

Regardless of the personal sacrifice involved, we will be happiest if we make the choice that pleases Jehovah. This means that we must quit touching the unclean thing. If we do, then Jehovah promises that he will take us in. Yes, he will count us among his favored people.​—2 Corinthians 6:17.

Jehovah has our best interests at heart. He formulated his commands to improve the quality of our lives. Respond to his sincere appeal as found at Isaiah 48:17, 18. “I, Jehovah, am your God, the One teaching you to benefit yourself, the One causing you to tread in the way in which you should walk. O if only you would actually pay attention to my commandments. Then your peace would become just like a river, and your righteousness like the waves of the sea.”

[Box/​Picture on page 10]

A Responsibility of Parents

If you are a parent, you have the Scriptural responsibility to teach your children to discern the difference between good and bad music. This means acquainting yourself with what they are listening to. It means your being firm as to what music you will and will not permit in the home.

Reason with your children. Avoid arguments that weaken credibility. Statements such as, “I can’t understand why you listen to that garbage,” will likely move young ones to cling even more tightly to their personal choices. Pointing to the degraded personal life-style of a musician may likewise be unconvincing, especially if it is not reflected in the music. One young man exclaimed: “For someone to say that all rap music is bad, I just really think is ignorant!”

So inform yourself. Learn what God’s viewpoint is on these matters. Jehovah’s Witnesses would be glad to assist by providing you with Bible-based publications that go into more detail. Know the facts. Make it clear that the issue is that of Bible standards and not of imposing your personal taste on your children.​—Ephesians 6:4.

[Picture on page 9]

If a Christian listens to debasing music, can he conscientiously advise others against it?

[Picture on page 11]

You will be happier if you throw away what Jehovah abhors

Crossword Puzzle

Crossword Puzzle

Clues Across

1. His son was king of Babylon when Hezekiah was king of Judah (Isaiah 39:1)

4. Ezra was noted as a skilled one (Ezra 7:6)

9. Proclaim publicly (Luke 19:40)

10. A son of Benjamin (Genesis 46:21)

11. His son Amasa was one of four headmen of Ephraim who heeded the plea of the prophet Oded to return the captives from Judah (2 Chronicles 28:12)

12. The number of people that Jesus said would find the cramped road to life (Matthew 7:14)

13. Grabs hold of (Mark 9:18)

16. The prohibition against this impressed upon the Israelites the need not to disfigure the human body​—God’s creation (Leviticus 19:28)

18. Sympathetic (Ephesians 4:32)

21. What God will bring to those of his servants who suffer tribulation (2 Thessalonians 1:7)

23. Something given as security (Amos 2:8)

25. Consumed (Amos 7:4)

26. One of the Levites who assisted Ezra in explaining the Law of Jehovah to the Israelites in Jerusalem (Nehemiah 8:7)

28. A descendant of Judah and the father of Beth-gader (1 Chronicles 2:51)

30. What the unrighteous steward in Jesus’ illustration was ashamed to do (Luke 16:3)

31. An ornament (Proverbs 25:12)

32. Nationality of Cyrus (Daniel 6:28)

Clues Down

1. Moral or spiritual defect (Philippians 2:15)y

2. It is not put under a bed (Mark 4:21)

3. Stratagem (Mark 14:1)

5. The Lycian seaport where Paul likely transferred to a boat sailing to Phoenicia (Acts 21:1)

6. Christians know it is “nothing in the world” (1 Corinthians 8:4)

7. What Judas became (Luke 6:16)

8. Locations in the Promised Land set aside as places of residence for the sons of Aaron [2 words] (Joshua 21:4)

14. Jezebel’s last words recalled the consequences that befell this king (2 Kings 9:31)

15. The only thing Jesus allowed the 12 to carry when he sent them out by twos (Mark 6:7, 8)

16. A group of soldiers (2 Chronicles 25:13)

17. Vestige (Daniel 2:35)

19. The well-known family, or clan, to which Hushai, David’s faithful companion, belonged (2 Samuel 16:16)

20. Royal city of the Amorite king Sihon (Joshua 9:10)

22. The only Biblical reference to this is in Jacob’s dream (Genesis 28:12)

24. As regards the Christian congregation, only Jesus bears this title (Matthew 23:10)

27. A priestly ancestor of Adaiah, who served at the temple in Nehemiah’s time (Nehemiah 11:12)

29. The overseer of those cultivating David’s fields (1 Chronicles 27:26)

Crossword Solutions Page 21

Solutions Across

1. BALADAN

4. COPYIST

9. CRY

10. MUPPIM

11. HADLAI

12. FEW

13. SEIZES

16. TATTOO

18. COMPASSIONATE

21. RELIEF

23. PLEDGE

25. ATE

26. HODIAH

28. HAREPH

30. BEG

31. EARRING

32. PERSIAN

Solutions Down

1. BLEMISH

2. LAMP

3. DEVICE

5. PATARA

6. IDOL

7. TRAITOR

8. PRIESTS CITIES

14. ZIMRI

15. STAFF

16. TROOP

17. TRACE

19. ARCHITE

20. HESHBON

22. LADDER

24. LEADER

27. AMZI

29. EZRI

How Can I Cope With My Disability?

Young People Ask . . .

How Can I Cope With My Disability?

“SHE can still walk,” says the mother of a young girl we’ll call Maggie. “But her coordination is off, and her speech is slurred.” Maggie has multiple sclerosis and is one of the millions of youths the world over who suffer a physical impairment.

Perhaps you are one of them. And whether you were born with a disability or you acquired it as the result of illness or accident,a there is no need to conclude that your life is over. With patient effort on your part, you can take positive steps to cope effectively with your situation.

The Snare of Wishful Thinking

Of course, it is human nature not to want to accept an unpleasant reality but to wistfully hope that the impairment will simply go away. The apostle Paul apparently suffered some sort of illness that affected his eyesight. (Compare Galatians 6:11.) Referring to his first visit to Christians in Galatia, Paul said: “It was through a sickness of my flesh I declared the good news to you the first time. And what was a trial to you in my flesh, you did not treat with contempt or spit at in disgust.” (Galatians 4:13, 14) Some scholars think that Paul’s affliction caused his eyes to ooze pus or in some way made his appearance offensive. It is no surprise, then, that Paul “three times entreated the Lord” that the illness depart. But it did not. (2 Corinthians 12:8, 9) In spite of his disability, though, he enjoyed an outstanding career as a missionary, scholar, and writer.

You too may have to come to terms with the permanence of your impairment. In the book Living With the Disabled, author Jan Coombs writes: “For the patient to adjust to his disability he must first acknowledge that he is disabled. He must learn that his limitation may restrict and inconvenience him but does not devalue him as a person.” If there is no legitimate hope for a cure, denying the reality of your condition will only serve to bog you down in a quagmire of self-blame, misery, and disappointment. On the other hand, “wisdom is with the modest ones,” says the Bible at Proverbs 11:2, and a modest person knows and accepts his limitations. This does not mean becoming a hermit or settling for a drab, joyless existence. Rather, modesty entails honestly assessing your situation and setting realistic goals.

Act With Knowledge

You also need accurate knowledge of the nature of your disability. “Everyone shrewd will act with knowledge,” says Proverbs 13:16. (Compare Proverbs 10:14.) This may mean reading some medical literature or asking specific questions of your doctor and other health professionals who treat you. Educating yourself in this regard can relieve you of any misconceptions that could hold you back from reaching your potential.

It may also help to keep abreast of medical developments and treatments that could improve your situation. For example, artificial limbs (prostheses) using new, lightweight materials have been developed that allow greater comfort and flexibility of movement. Indeed, Time magazine reports an “explosion” of helpful devices for individuals with disabilities. Perhaps such products are available locally and are within your family’s budget.

More conventional devices, such as hearing aids, canes, crutches, and braces, may also be quite useful. Now, some youths may feel too self-conscious and awkward to use such aids. But King Solomon wisely observed: “If your ax is dull and you don’t sharpen it, you have to work harder to use it.” (Ecclesiastes 10:10; Today’s English Version) You could likewise wear yourself out​—or hold yourself back from enjoyable activities—​if you fail to make good use of the tools that can help you. Why let pride cause you to make your life more difficult than it has to be? Solomon concluded by saying: “The using of wisdom to success means advantage.”

Yes, it is to your advantage to use something that will help you walk, see, or hear better. True, it may take considerable practice and patience to master using a crutch, prosthesis, or hearing aid. And these devices may not necessarily do much to enhance your looks. But think about the freedom they can give you and the opportunities they may open up! One disabled African girl named Jay lived the life of a recluse, venturing out of the small compound where she lived only once in her 18 years. After studying the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses, she began attending Christian meetings. This required her to “walk” several blocks, pulling herself forward by her hands, dragging her torso behind her. When a Witness in Europe learned of Jay’s plight, she sent her a three-wheeled wheelchair. It came with a chain drive that Jay could operate with her hands. Glamorous? Hardly. But this seemingly awkward mode of transport allowed her to go to meetings and to share in the door-to-door preaching work.

Challenge Yourself!

Beware, though, of developing a negative mental attitude. Said wise King Solomon: “He that is watching the wind will not sow seed; and he that is looking at the clouds will not reap.” (Ecclesiastes 11:4) Do you allow fear or uncertainty to hold you back from doing the things you want and need to do? Consider Moses. When God selected him to deliver the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, Moses tried to beg off on the basis of having a speech impairment. “I am uncircumcised in lips,” said Moses, possibly indicating some deformity that muffled his speech. (Exodus 6:12) But Moses was underestimating himself. In time, he proved that he was able to speak fluently​—addressing the entire nation of Israel.​—Deuteronomy 1:1.

Do not make the same mistake of selling yourself short. Push and challenge yourself! Young Becky, for example, has some difficulty speaking because of injuries she received in an accident that occurred at age five. But her parents did not allow her to give up. On the contrary, they enrolled her in the Theocratic Ministry School at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. By age seven, Becky was giving brief talks before an audience. Recalls Becky: “Giving talks helped. It motivated me to work harder on my speech.” Becky was also encouraged to have a full share in the house-to-house preaching work. “I sometimes think people must really hate to hear me speak; I worry about what they think. But then I tell myself, ‘I’m doing this for Jehovah,’ and I ask him to help me get through it.” Today, Becky serves as a full-time evangelizer.

Craig, now an adult, suffers from cerebral palsy. He too has refused to allow his disability to hold him back from being a valued member of the Christian congregation. He says: “I rely on Jehovah, and he has allowed me to enjoy many of his blessings. I have been able to serve as an auxiliary pioneer [evangelizer] five times. I give Bible lectures on the Theocratic Ministry School, and I am able to handle the congregation accounts.”

There is also “a time to laugh,” and with some practice, you may even be able to enjoy some of the fun activities other youths enjoy. (Ecclesiastes 3:4) Admits Becky: “I can’t play sports like volleyball because my reflexes are so slow. But I can run. And shortly after the accident, my mom encouraged me to learn how to ride a bike. She always encouraged me to try new things.”

Don’t Go It Alone

Coping with a physical disability is not easy. The apostle Paul called his impairment “a thorn in the flesh.” (2 Corinthians 12:7) Fortunately, you don’t have to face your problems alone. Sarne, a young woman with a hip deformity, says: “I find that having proper Christian association and loving support from family and from friends in the congregation has been invaluable to me.” Yes, do not isolate yourself. (Proverbs 18:1) To the extent possible, have “plenty to do in the work of the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15:58) Sarne describes the benefit: “Being active in Kingdom pursuits helps me have the proper view of my problems.” Becky observes: “You get to talk to people who are really worse off than you because they don’t have a hope for the future. That helps me take my mind off myself.”

Above all, look to Jehovah God for support. He understands your needs and your feelings and can even provide you with “the power beyond what is normal” to help you cope. (2 Corinthians 4:7) Perhaps you may in time have the optimistic viewpoint of a disabled Christian youth named Terrence. At age nine, Terrence lost his vision but has refused to let it get the best of him, saying: “My blindness is not a handicap; it’s just an inconvenience.”

[Footnotes]

If your disability has just recently come about, you may understandably be struggling with feelings of bitterness, anger, and sadness. In fact, it is perfectly normal​—and healthy—​to go through a period of grieving when you have suffered a serious loss. (Compare Judges 11:37; Ecclesiastes 7:1-3.) Be assured that with time and the loving support of family and friends, the storm of hurt feelings will eventually lessen.

[Picture on page 15]

Learn all you can about your disability

A Coach Safari to the Center of Australia

A Coach Safari to the Center of Australia

By Awake! correspondent in Australia

HAVE you ever cruised down a crocodile-infested river? Have you ever enjoyed a sing-along on a moonlit night, hundreds of miles from civilization? Have you ever shared in Christian meetings while motoring along a highway at 60 miles [100 km] an hour? Such experiences are just a sample of those enjoyed by hundreds of delegates from various localities traveling by coach safari to a district convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses at Alice Springs in the sunburned center of Australia.

“The word ‘safari’ was appropriate,” said one delegate, “because we slept outdoors in two-person tents. By the time we got to Alice Springs, we could erect our tents in less than three minutes! It was almost like watching a video on fast-forward: The coaches would stop, and an empty park would suddenly sprout dozens of little tents.”

Welcome to “The Alice”

Alice Springs (“The Alice” to locals) is a thriving oasis besieged by a red desert. It has a population of 23,000 and lies just south of the geographic center of the Australian continent. It is now a tourist center that uses as a predominant theme Australia’s indigenous Aboriginal people and their unique art.

To the Witnesses, however, the highlight of the whole safari was the three-day convention itself. For some of them, it proved to be an opportunity for many joyful reunions. A steaming hot cup of tea is one of the symbols of outback hospitality in Australia, and the convention kept this custom alive with its unique billy-tea-and-damper refreshments tent. Billy tea is simply tea brewed over an open fire in a smoke-blackened tin can known as a billy. Sometimes the boiling water is stirred with a eucalyptus, or gum, tree twig as the tea leaves are poured into the billy. A eucalyptus twig placed across the top of the billy prevents smoke getting into the tea.

Damper is a simple type of bread. The only ingredients needed are self-rising flour and water and salt. While still hot, the damper is cut into thick slices and then spread with a generous supply of butter and golden syrup. The billy-tea-and-damper tent proved to be one of the most popular meeting places at the convention grounds.

Faithfully Serving in Isolation

The Alice Springs Congregation consists of 72 Witnesses and takes care of some 77,000 square miles [200,000 sq km]. Darwin is about 1,100 miles [1,800 km] to the north, and Adelaide is nearly 1,000 miles [1,600 km] to the south. Visiting delegates were amazed to see firsthand what a challenge living in the outback presents in view of the extreme distances, the constant heat, the dust, and the isolation.

An outstanding example is the uranium-mining town of Jabiru. Only one Witness lives here, and she is 160 miles [260 km] from the nearest congregation. Yet, isolation has not weakened her spiritually. Her presence at the convention proved to be of encouragement to many others. Also, from the remote Aboriginal community of Jilkmingan, on the edge of Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory, four Bible students traveled to be among the 26 that were baptized at this convention.

Delegates Let Their Light Shine

The convention over, all the coaches headed north to the top end of the Australian continent. A highlight of this leg of the safari was a boat cruise up the fresh, clear waters of Katherine Gorge en route to well-known Kakadu National Park. This afforded the travelers their first glimpse of crocodiles in the wild. Fascinating, but a little scary! Then, after a pleasant night at the Northern Territory capital city, Darwin, the safari’s next stop was Mataranka Station, famous for its palm-lined, crystal-clear thermal springs and pools.

Sight-seeing, however, did not crowd out spiritual activities. The coaches became mobile Kingdom Halls. A Scripture text and printed comments were discussed each day, and the normal weekly congregation meetings were held en route. One of the coach drivers who was not a Witness was so impressed that, on his own initiative, he purchased an extension cord, microphone, and plug to connect to the coach’s public address system so that those commenting during these discussions could be heard more clearly.

During the tour, an elderly traveler became so ill that she needed to be rushed to a local hospital. A friend remained with her, but the coaches had to press on. Two days later, after her recovery, she and her companion were downcast and very disappointed at having missed out on the rest of the safari. But Christian love cut their sadness short.

Two of the local Witnesses who were pilots became aware of the situation. Then things happened quickly. Soon all four were airborne in a light aircraft, heading for the town of Port Augusta to catch up with the coaches. One of the travelers exclaimed emotionally: “We were filled with love and appreciation for the wonderful brotherhood we belong to!” But this was not all. Upon the arrival of the aircraft, a number of fellow delegates volunteered to share in contributing financially to cover the pilots’ expenses! The coach driver was visibly moved at this display of brotherly affection, saying that he had never seen anything like it before.

“Reflecting on the three weeks spent on the Alice Springs tour,” said one of the travelers, “I found it to be the most encouraging and faith-strengthening experience I have ever had. What stands out above all is the spirit of togetherness we all enjoyed. It would not have mattered where we went geographically​—the real treasure was our unity of mind and spirit!”

[Map on page 18]

(For fully formatted text, see publication)

Routes of safari tours to and from Alice Springs convention

Western Australia

Northern Territory

Queensland

New South Wales

South Australia

Victoria

Tasmania

Darwin

Perth

Alice Springs

Brisbane

Sydney

Adelaide

Melbourne

Hobart

Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Port Augusta

Kakadu National Park

[Picture on page 16, 17]

Aborigines were among those awaiting baptism at the Alice Springs district convention

[Picture on page 17]

Campfire with billy tea and damper

[Picture on page 17]

Crocodile basking in the sun at Kakadu National Park

[Pictures on page 18]

Uluru (Ayers Rock) 290 miles [470 km] southwest of Alice Springs

Typical scene in Northern Territory’s Kakadu National Park

Science—Mankind’s Ongoing Search for Truth

Part 5

Science​—Mankind’s Ongoing Search for Truth

Working 20th-Century “Magic”

WHAT appeared in the 19th century to be impossible “magic” has in the 20th become reality. Within a single generation, people went from driving their own Model T Ford to the thrill of watching on color TV men walking on the moon. Far from being viewed as exceptional, scientifically produced “miracles” are today largely taken for granted.

“The scientific achievements of the earlier 20th century,” notes The New Encyclopædia Britannica, “are too immense even to be cataloged.” It refers to “a common pattern of advance,” however, saying that “in each major field, progress was based on the successful descriptive work of the 19th century.” This underscores the fact that science is an ongoing search for truth.

Replaced by Groups

Scientific societies, groups of scientists who met to exchange ideas and information, were formed in Europe as early as the 17th century. In order to make known the latest findings, these societies even began publishing their own journals. This led to an extensive exchange of information that served to consolidate the basis upon which further scientific progress could be made.

By the 19th century, universities had become deeply involved in scientific research, and in subsequent years their laboratories made important discoveries.a By the beginning of the 20th century, business firms were also setting up research laboratories, which in time developed new medicines, synthetic materials (including plastics), and other products. From these the public has benefited, and the researching firms have earned millions of dollars in profits.

The establishment of these laboratories and research groups suggested a trend toward organized research in contrast with individual effort. Some scientists wondered if this was the best approach. In 1939, John D. Bernal, Irish physicist and X-ray crystallographer, posed the question: “Should science advance by the casual co-ordination of the work of gifted individuals, each following his inner light, or by groups or gangs of workers mutually assisting each other and integrating their work according to some preconceived though flexible plan?”

Because of the complexity and high cost of research, Bernal argued for working in groups, saying the problem was simply how to properly organize the activity. He predicted: “Team work will tend increasingly to be the mode of scientific research.” Now, over a half century later, it is apparent that Bernal was correct. The trend has continued, speeding up the process of working 20th-century scientific “magic.”

“What Hath God Wrought!”

On May 24, 1844, this four-word exclamation was successfully telegraphed by Samuel Morse, inventor of the Morse code, over a distance in excess of 30 miles [50 km]. The 19th-century roots of subsequent 20th-century telecommunications “magic” were now being planted.

Some 30 years later, in 1876, Alexander Graham Bell was preparing to test a transmitter with Thomas Watson, his assistant, when Bell spilled some acid. His cry, “Mr. Watson, come here. I want you,” turned out to be more than just a cry for help. Watson, located in a separate room, heard the message, recognized it as the first fully intelligible sentence ever transmitted by telephone, and came on the run. Ringing telephones have kept people on the run ever since.

During the past 93 years, scientific knowledge, coupled with technological know-how, has provided people in ever greater numbers with a standard of living never before achieved. The world has been reduced to neighborhood size. “Impossible” things have become the norm. In fact, telephones, televisions, automobiles, and airplanes​—and any number of other 20th-century “miracles”—​are so much a part of our world that we tend to forget that mankind did without them for the major part of its existence.

As the century began, notes The New Encyclopædia Britannica, “the triumphs of science seemed to promise knowledge and power in superabundance.” But the technological advances made in the meantime have not been enjoyed everywhere in equal measure, nor can all of them be classified as unequivocally beneficial. “Few men,” it adds, “could foresee the problems that these very successes would bring to their social and natural environment.”

What Caused the Problems?

No fault can be found with scientific facts that help us to understand the universe better, nor with the technology that in a practical way harnesses them for mankind’s benefit.

These two​—science and technology—​have long enjoyed kinship. But according to the book Science and the Rise of Technology Since 1800, “their intimate connection, now familiar, was not fully established until quite recently.” Apparently even during the first part of the industrial revolution, the relationship was less than intimate. While newly acquired scientific knowledge contributed to the development of new products, so did craft experience, manual skill, and expertise in mechanical crafts.

After the industrial revolution began, however, the amassing of scientific knowledge accelerated, thereby creating a broader base upon which technology could work. Imbued with fresh knowledge, technology set out to try to devise ways of alleviating drudgery, improving health, and fostering a better, happier world.

But technology can be no better than the scientific knowledge upon which it is based. If scientific knowledge is faulty, any technological developments based upon it will likewise be flawed. Often, side effects will become apparent only after considerable damage has been done. For example, who could have foreseen that the introduction of aerosol sprays using chlorofluorocarbons or hydrocarbons would someday endanger the earth’s protective ozone layer?

Something else is also involved​—motive. A dedicated scientist may be interested in knowledge as such and may be willing to spend decades of his life in research. But a businessman, who may be more interested in the pursuit of profits, is eager to put the knowledge to immediate use. And what politician will patiently wait decades before using technology he thinks may give him political leverage if used at once?

Physicist Albert Einstein put his finger on the problem when he said: “The unleashed power of the atom has changed everything save our modes of thinking and we thus drift toward unparalleled catastrophe.” (Italics ours.) Yes, many of the problems created by 20th-century “magic” have arisen not simply because of faulty scientific knowledge but also because of runaway technology motivated by selfish interests.

As a case in point, science discovered that sound and vision could be transmitted to distant places​—television. Technology developed the necessary know-how to do so. But it was a wrong mode of thinking on the part of greedy commerce and demanding consumers that put this remarkable knowledge and technology to use in transmitting pornographic pictures and violent scenes of gore into peaceful living rooms.

Likewise, science discovered that matter could be transformed into energy. Technology developed the necessary know-how to do so. But it was a wrong mode of thinking on the part of nationalistic politics that put this knowledge and technology to use in building nuclear bombs that still hang like the Sword of Damocles over the head of the world community.

Keeping Science in Its Place

It betrays a further wrong mode of thinking if people permit technologically developed tools that were designed as slaves to become masters. Time magazine warned of this danger in 1983 when it chose, not its usual man of the year, but a “machine of the year,” the computer.

Time reasoned: “As people rely on the computer to do things that they used to do inside their heads, what happens to their heads? . . . If a dictionary stored in the computer’s memory can easily correct any spelling mistakes, what is the point of learning to spell? And if the mind is freed from intellectual routine, will it race off in pursuit of important ideas or lazily spend its time on more video games? . . . Does the computer really stimulate the brain’s activity or, by doing so much of its work, permit it to go slack?”

Nevertheless, some people are so impressed by scientific accomplishments that they elevate science to virtual godship. Scientist Anthony Standen discussed this in his 1950 book Science Is a Sacred Cow. Even if we allow for possible exaggeration, Standen has a point: “When a white-robed scientist . . . makes some pronouncement for the general public, he may not be understood, but at least he is certain to be believed. . . . Statesmen, industrialists, ministers of religion, civic leaders, philosophers, all are questioned and criticized, but scientists​—never. Scientists are exalted beings who stand at the very topmost pinnacle of popular prestige, for they have the monopoly of the formula ‘It has been scientifically proved . . . ’ which appears to rule out all possibility of disagreement.”

Because of this wrong mode of thinking, some people seize upon seeming contradictions between science and the Bible as proof of scientific “wisdom” in contrast with religious “superstition.” Some even see in these so-called contradictions a proof of God’s nonexistence. However, in reality it is not God who is nonexistent but rather the imagined contradictions that clergymen have created by misinterpreting his Word. They thereby insult the Bible’s divine Author and at the same time do a disservice to mankind’s ongoing search for scientific truth.

Additionally, by failing to train their parishioners to exercise the fruitage of God’s spirit, these religious leaders foster an atmosphere of selfishness that causes people to think mainly of their own desires for personal comfort and convenience. This is often at the expense of others, even to the point of misusing scientific knowledge to slaughter fellow humans.​—Galatians 5:19-23.

False religion, imperfect human politics, and greedy commerce have shaped people into what they now are, “lovers of themselves, . . . unthankful, . . . without self-control,” egoists who are driven by a wrong mode of thinking.​—2 Timothy 3:1-3.

These are the people and organizations that have created the challenges of the 21st century that science is now being called upon to meet. Will it succeed? Read the answer in the final installment of this series in our next issue.

[Footnotes]

For example, much of the research for the Manhattan Project, the U.S. crash program that developed the atom bomb, was done in the research laboratories of the University of Chicago and the University of California at Berkeley.

[Blurb on page 20]

If scientific knowledge is faulty, developments based on it will be flawed

[Blurb on page 22]

Not all scientific achievements are beneficial

[Picture Credit Lines on page 19]

From the Collections of Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village

NASA photo

The Cape Buffalo—A Cooperative Beast

The Cape Buffalo​—A Cooperative Beast

By Awake! correspondent in Kenya

YOU are driving across the African savanna. Your car lurches over a rise, and suddenly, just a few yards away, a line of fearsome beasts appears. They are massive creatures, each standing about five feet [1.5 m] at the shoulder and weighing nearly a ton. Alarmed by your advance, they stand frozen, their heads thrown back to catch your scent, their eyes gazing at you menacingly.

Your eyes, however, are locked on their huge horns, which sweep down and out to the sides. Tip to tip those horns measure as much as 58 inches [147 cm] across. On some of the beasts, the ridged bases of the horns broaden out and extend across the top of the forehead, forming a huge helmet. You wonder how many blows your vehicle could withstand from such a battering ram.

Given the reputation of these beasts, such fears are understandable. After all, these are Cape buffalo, and they are reputed to be extremely dangerous, prone to charge at the slightest provocation. Indeed, Cape buffalo are said to have injured or killed more men​—and lions—​than any other herbivore on earth. No wonder the sight of them may alarm you! So when one of the creatures lets loose an explosive snort, you brace yourself for the worst. But to your surprised relief, no attack comes. Instead, the whole line of bulls turns around and trots off!

No, you did not succeed in frightening off these creatures with your gaze. For, while it is not a beast to be toyed with, the Cape buffalo is a surprisingly tranquil creature by nature. Its diet is grass​—not meat (animal or human). Its reputation for ferocity is the result of legend and tall tales told by hunters, not scientific study. In reality, it will flee from confrontation rather than seek it. And far from being a disagreeable brute, the Cape buffalo is a model of cooperation.

Cooperation for Survival

The Cape buffalo is a uniquely social creature. Found throughout most of Africa south of the Sahara, it is content in virtually any type of terrain as long as it is close to water. During the rainy seasons when water and food are plentiful, Cape buffalo travel in huge herds. While in some areas the average herd is about 350 strong, some herds number into the thousands. In the dry season, the herds shrink to groups of from 2 to 20. Every day​—once in the morning and once at night—​the herd travels to a nearby water source. A single buffalo will drink as much as eight to ten gallons [30-40 L].

In the heat of the day, these sociable quadrupeds love to lie in the water and wallow in the mud. Not only is this habit cooling and refreshing but it helps rid them of irritating parasites. Or they may simply lie in the shade in seeming meditation, slowly digesting the grass, bushes, and leaves they grazed on during the night.

When danger strikes, the spirit of cooperation quickly becomes apparent. A buffalo will sound the alarm by letting loose a loud snort. Soon, the whole herd rallies to its defense. Why, buffalo have been known to herd together and charge a lion! This instinct to protect one another is quite unusual among herbivores, the rule usually being every beast for himself when danger appears. As a result, lame and blind buffalo are able to survive as long as they stick close to the herd.

The same cohesiveness continues even when no danger is imminent. For example, when there is a change of activity, say from grazing to lying down, the entire herd quickly conforms within a few minutes. Scientists used to believe that the herd followed a single lead animal in doing so, but more recently it has been suggested that they follow whichever member is most familiar with the particular area in which they find themselves. Generally, this will be an older female. Full-grown males tend to strike out on their own and leave the herd. Therefore, the herds are not bullied into obedience by a dominating leader but show themselves to be quite cooperative by nature.

The Solitary Bull​—A Loner?

Why, though, do males break off from the herds? Have they become antisocial? Not at all. Their comparatively solitary existence appears to result from their huge bulk. Too heavy to move about as frequently as the herd does, they come to prefer a more sedentary life-style. Each one therefore stakes out a personal territory​—a place with shade, vegetation for nightly grazing, and a nearby watering place. Still, he stays as close as possible to the path the herd treads in its daily treks for water. From time to time, he will graze with his old companions. When water supplies dwindle during the dry seasons, several bulls will band together for their twice-a-day trips to their water source.

What if the herd is forced to cross a bull’s personal territory? Does a huge fight ensue? Not at all. The bull will meet the herd at the border of his “property” and personally escort them to the border of the territory of a neighboring bull. This one, in turn, takes charge and conducts them to the next territory. The process repeats itself until the herd has reached its watering grounds. If the herd is menaced, the bulls will take on the role of protectors for the cows and calves. They will automatically take the rear guard​—the most dangerous position—​and will be the last to run.

The Cape buffalo’s reputation as a fearsome beast is thus undeserved. Having come to know this beast a little better, we can see it, not as a mindlessly aggressive juggernaut, but as a peaceful example of cooperation that is worthy of contemplation​—perhaps even imitation.

[Pictures on page 24, 25]

Buffalo have been known to herd together and charge a lion

Though bulls leave the herd, they continue to be quite sociable

Charitable Contributions—A Christian Obligation?

The Bible’s Viewpoint

Charitable Contributions​—A Christian Obligation?

LESS than ten years ago, the PTL (Praise the Lord) Club, headquartered in the southeastern United States, solicited donations as a religious charity. Using a satellite-TV network and the mails, they collected hundreds of millions of dollars, which came pouring in to fill their coffers​—ostensibly to spread the gospel.

Imagine how the thousands who had sent money to the PTL Club felt when they read news reports such as the Associated Press dispatch that said Jim Bakker, former president of PTL, together with his wife, Tammy, “reportedly were paid $1.6 million in salary and bonuses in 1986.” Worse yet, the report added: “Those payments were made even though the ministry is at least $50 million in debt . . . Some $265,000 in PTL money had been set aside for [Jessica] Hahn to ensure her silence about the [sexual] encounter with Bakker.”

Before handing down a prison sentence to Bakker for defrauding his followers, the judge at his trial said: “Those of us who do have a religion are sick of being saps for money-grubbing preachers and priests.”

Religion is not alone in zealously pushing the emotional buttons of contributors and then pocketing most of the money. It is not unusual for some fund-raisers to keep more than 90 percent of the donations they solicit.

Is it any wonder, then, that people are getting fed up with such charities? However, what are Christians to do? Are they obligated to give to organized charities? What guidelines does the Bible give to ensure the wise use of funds when helping others? What is the best and most practical way to help others?

Giving​—Yes and No

To be sure, the Bible’s counsel is to be kind and generous toward those in need. From ancient times God’s people have been encouraged to “be liberal, ready to share.” (1 Timothy 6:18; Deuteronomy 15:7, 10, 11) In fact, Christians are told at 1 John 3:17: “Whoever has this world’s means for supporting life and beholds his brother having need and yet shuts the door of his tender compassions upon him, in what way does the love of God remain in him?”

Give, yes; but beware! We are regularly bombarded by charities, religions, and annual community-service campaigns; most make compelling appeals. However, in evaluating them it is good to remember the Bible proverb: “Anyone inexperienced puts faith in every word, but the shrewd one considers his steps.” (Proverbs 14:15) In other words, beware of accepting the claims or promises of charities at face value. How is the collected money really used? Are the organizations funded those that a Christian should support? Are their activities political, nationalistic, or connected with false religion? Is the avowed purpose practical and not in conflict with Scriptural principles?

Some charities are able to do much good for people in need. When affected by natural disasters or catastrophic illness, many times Christians themselves have received benefits from such charities. Other charities, though, have high administrative costs or high fund-raising costs, with the result that only a small portion of the money collected is actually used for the advertised purpose. For example, a recent survey of 117 of the United States’ largest nonprofit organizations, including charities, found that more than a quarter of them pay their top executives a yearly salary of $200,000 or more. Audits often reveal expenditures for luxury items and the financing of an opulent life-style. Regardless of the name of the charity, it would take a long stretch of the imagination to believe that contributing to such schemes would fulfill the Bible’s command to help those in need.

A Balanced View

Though no one wants to waste his money​—or worse, see it used to line the pockets of self-serving men—​there is also the need to guard against becoming cynical in the matter of giving. Do not use the inefficiency or even the dishonesty of some “charities” as an excuse to look down on needy ones or to squelch feelings of compassion. Proverbs 3:27, 28 counsels: “Do not hold back good from those to whom it is owing, when it happens to be in the power of your hand to do it. Do not say to your fellowman: ‘Go, and come back and tomorrow I shall give,’ when there is something with you.” (Compare 1 John 3:18.) Do not assume that all organized charities are either wasteful or fraudulent. Examine the facts, then make a personal decision whether to give or not.

…