Time and again, I've seen this community rally for one cause or another. The speed and enthusiasm with which it does are an impressive indication of just how much of a “community” we really are. Whether it's time, money, or expertise, there are plenty of generous folks here who are not only will to help, but eager. There are even those who get just a little manic about it – yes, I'm talking to you, Vote4Obamain2012! :-)
When faced with an almost impossible task, When faced with an almost impossible task, raising $2,000 on a long holiday weekend, I only had two choices, neither of which pleased me very much. This whole situation is virgin territory for me. I've mostly been able to take care of myself. I will always contribute time and talent to a worthy cause. Sometimes, I can even help out someone else with a little money.
Helping is one of those things that makes me feel really good inside. Being the “helpee” hasn't been my style. As I've aged, I've realized that others like to help, too. They get the same kick out of doing good that I do, and I've become less uncomfortable accepting help from them. Asking for it, though, is a whole other thing entirely. Still, the only way for me to get what I needed this time was to ask for it, hat in hand.
My one rich friend has been truly wonderful, even before I became so destitute. She has taken me to get groceries and slipped me the odd $50 or $100, which she simply refused to consider a loan. In turn, I've helped her out with her computer woes. (There is nothing like a technophobe who is forced to use a machine she hates...) My first action was to call her. I would ask for help and it WOULD be a loan. No way could I ask even a really good friend for that kind of money as a freakin' gift! Since she was my first port in this ungodly storm, I know I sounded like a stranger on her voicemail. It was the first time I'd said what was happening out loud, for heaven's sake! I didn't hear from her last night. (Did I mention she doesn't like machines? She's usually pretty good about phones messages, though.) I'll have to call her at a decent hour to tell her to stand down because my DFH, liberal, commie virtual friends did something that has left me totally gobsmacked.
I've seen the diaries of those who were at their wit's and money's end. I ached for them, both because of their specific situations and because they had to come begging to us. I've never really been able to do much financially to help, but I like to think I've offered moral support, decent advice, and a good measure of consolation. I've been the good cop and the bad cop, the mother, doctor, confessor. It's a comfortable role for me. I thought I understood what it took for people to ask for help – until I had to do it myself.
With hands that shook so badly I couldn't type and a brain that was so overloaded that finding words, let alone the right ones, to recount what was happening to me, I took to the keyboard. I kept it short, mostly because I wasn't running on all cylinders. The response was immediate and overwhelming. People jumped right in with help on how to use Paypal. I'd only used my account once, years ago, to buy a subscription to Virtual Sheet Music. Nothing on that website looked even remotely familiar to me.
After a considerable discussion about how best to accomplish the impossible on a holiday weekend, people began to donate. And donate and donate. For seven beautiful hours, I watched the figure grow and responded to comments. Time stood still and I was stunned. It wasn't just the money. I was touched and surprised by those who wrote to say that I was a respected community member, that they recognized my name and were eager to help. I don't write that many diaries. I do read and comment prodigiously, offering what I can in the way of help, comfort, and expertise. I try to avoid confrontations that will only produce more conflict. I was finding out that that was enough, that it had its own value to at least a portion of the community.
Now, to Vote4Obamain2012.... I really don't know who s/he is. S/he intimates that this is an updated user name, but I'm no good at puzzles. What I do know is that out of the blue, I had my own cheering section. Literally, there were “Rah! Rah!” comments sprinkled throughout the comment threads. I didn't know until later in the evening that V4O2012 had posted another diary to point to mine so that more people would be aware of my situation. As small as it is, I can only say, “Thank you!” And people, if any of you need someone to plug a product or pitch an idea, this is your person - tenacious, enthusiastic, relentless. :-)
To all those who contributed, both financially and with prayers and loving support, there is simply no way to assess or articulate what you have done for me. Not only did you surpass the monetary goal in near-record time. You have given me a gift that is beyond price: you see me as a real person, not just a poor one. Oh damn, the tears are coming.... I won't attempt to name everyone who donated money because I know I'd miss someone. I also suspect that some of you just gave without mentioning it in the comments. All of you have confirmed what I've always believed, that in spite of all the venom and hatred we see around us, most people would rather do good than not.
My most humble and sincere thanks to you all. The final figure on Paypal is $1,636.72. With the non-Paypal contribution, it should add up to $2,436.72. That's nearly enough to pay January's rent as well, but never fear: I will have dinner on tmservo433 and a bottle of something wonderful on whoever it was who sent extra for that purpose. I cannot find you in the threads this morning, but you know who you are. I emailed my (conservative) sister last night to tell her of the amazing response of this community. As I told her about the dinner and the wine, it occured to me that I don't really know what places around here are good for such things. That's usually more than bit above my price range. Even if I find a place, I'm not sure I have any clothes that are suitable. :-) I'm pretty much a jeans a flannel shirt girl, especially in the winter. My idea of getting dressed up is to wear as many colors as possible and to put on a pretty vest. Anything more than that, I go borrowing from friends' closets.
It's been said before, but bears repeating: Kossacks, you rock! I will be gone for church in a little while, but will read and respond to comments this evening. Happy New Year, everyone!