It is increasingly common to see individuals and organizations visiting offices, approaching people personally, and reaching out to well-wishers for sponsorships, donations, and financial assistance, often citing financial constraints in carrying out their initiatives. Helping others is undoubtedly a noble responsibility, and one should extend support to genuine humanitarian, charitable, and community causes. However, such support should come from a compassionate heart and a genuine willingness to contribute, rather than from social pressure, an obligation, or repeated last-minute appeals for financial assistance.
This is not intended to criticize or discourage humanitarian activities, nor is it meant to oppose any individual, organization, or institution. On contrary, I deeply appreciate and sincerely respect those who dedicate their time, energy, and resources etc. to serving society and helping people in need. Voluntary contributions and collective efforts have an important role in building a caring and supportive society. My intention is neither to teach nor to advise, but to gently remind to pause, reflect, rethink, and rework approach to social and financial obligations. Let us promote mutual understanding and financial sensitivity, ensuring that no individual or family feels undue pressure to fulfil every social commitment. Good intentions should lead to meaningful and sustainable outcomes without placing an unreasonable burden on others.
Money is earned through hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance, and it should always be earned honestly, with integrity, dignity, and peace of mind above wealth. Except for funds specifically allocated for charity, people do not earn money simply to distribute it as donations, sponsorships, or contributions. Many households live from one salary to the next, and even those with reasonably good incomes have financial commitments and family needs. As income increases, expenses often increase too. Therefore, we should respect everyone’s financial circumstances and understand that a good monthly income does not necessarily mean having money to spare.
Let us consider the growing financial commitments individuals and families may face over the next 5-6 months. Even a person earning Rs. 80,000– Rs. 1,00,000 per month may have limited financial flexibility, as illustrated by the following estimated social, personal, and financial expenses.
The above figures are illustrative estimates of cumulative expenses over the specified period, not monthly expenditure. Actual costs vary according to individual circumstances and exclude essentials such as food, utilities, healthcare, transport, and savings.
When these expenses accumulate, even someone earning Rs. 80,000–Rs. 1,00,000 per month may face financial difficulties, especially when supporting a family on a single income while managing existing loans and liabilities.
This raises a question: How can an ordinary salaried person sustain growing social and financial expectations while also meeting the basic needs, responsibilities, and future requirements of the family?
Social relationships, community participation, religious commitments, and humanitarian service are important aspects of our lives. However, their value should not be measured solely by the amount of money a person contributes. A person’s sincerity, goodwill, time, service, prayer, and moral support are equally valuable, even when financial assistance is not possible.
We must distinguish voluntary contributions from social obligations. Frequent requests and expectations to contribute can pressure people to give beyond their means, causing financial stress, affecting family priorities, and straining social relationships.
Let us respect people’s hard-earned income and financial circumstances, remembering that the ability to contribute does not always mean the capacity to do so. When someone says, “I cannot afford it at this time,” let us respond with understanding, respect, and dignity, without judgment or pressure.
Zeluosielie Kehie,
Sovima Village,
Chümoukedima-
Nagaland
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