Politics and Religion

by Suzanne Sadowsky

I am reminded of the old adage that goes something like: "In polite company there are two things that one must be careful not to discuss: Politics and Religion." Whose advice was this? Emily Post? Amy Vanderbilt? When I first heard it, I wondered, why? Why was it wrong to talk about Religion? Or Politics? It was soon explained to me, and I realized form experience that the reason was that it might lead to arguments and bad feelings. And I quickly realized that if I left out religion and politics and money from conversation, I might not have much of anything important to talk about (except maybe sex). So at risk of being impolite, I have some things on my mind that I want to say:

First, I am very disturbed about the Bush Administration's initiative that would support social programs through faith-based institutions. The separation of Church (or Synagogue) and State is fundamental to our freedom. This essential separation would be severely eroded should such a bill become law. Even if it fails this go 'round, the issue will come up again, in one form or another.

Secondly, I feel manipulated by the recent notice from the IRS telling me that I will be getting a tax rebate. This regressive refund which gives the most money to those who need it least enforces the ever-widening gap between the well-to-do and those who are struggling to feed and house themselves and their families in this economy.

I feel manipulated because in some ways the refund seems like a gift when it is, in fact, my money to begin with. It is also money that could have been used to support our schools, or for prevention or treatment programs. Or to provide universal health insurance coverage, or for environmental education and protection or for truly affordable, environmentally friendly housing. My list could go on and on. I'm sure many of you may have a list of your own.

On the other hand, I could really use the money. I have loans to pay, things I want, or think I need, places I'd like to visit, or a present I want to buy for someone. This list of mine is pretty long also.

I'm feeling not only manipulated, but also disenfranchised by the last national election and its aftermath. I've been trying to figure out what to do with these angry feelings of disempowerment and I decided that instead of just spending the check I'll get from the U.S. Treasury this month --either to pay bills or to buy something-- I'm going to see if I can give all or part of it away. I will put the money in my checking account and send money to several causes, charities, organizations, or to people that I want to support.

I strongly believe that charity begins at home. At a local level, we have the ability and a chance to make wise decisions on what needs to be done in our communities. Small local nonprofits depend heavily on donations from the community. So some of my IRS money will go to local Valley organizations. First on my list is, of course, our beloved Congregation. There are quite a number of local Valley and West Marin non-profit and tax-exempt organizations that could use help. You probably know which they are, but if you would like such a list, give me a call.

Because charity begins at home doesn't mean that charity ends at home either --we live in a Community and our extended community is, more than ever, global in nature. So I will try to extend my giving beyond the Bay Area and support national or overseas organizations in whose work I believe and trust.

If these ideas make sense to you, and I hope they do, and if you are one of the "lucky" people who are getting checks from the IRS, I hope that you will, if you can, use all or part of the money for Tzedakah -- Charity and Tikkun Olam -- Repairing the World. Choose those causes or individuals, or organizations that need help, that are close to your heart, that support your beliefs or serve needs that are important to you.

But if you don't have the money, then maybe you have some time. There are many ways to make a difference. Oft times it is easier to contribute money and it also makes a lot of sense, but many local organizations also need other kinds of help -- volunteers who can serve on committees, on Boards, or can help with events or activities. So do consider also how you can support your community in whatever ways you are able. With money and by volunteering your time.

Well, there it is: Politics, Religion and Money. No offense intended.

—from our August 2001 newsletter

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