As we’ve scaled back our custom iced cookie business, I’ve listed some items for sale on a local marketplace site. So far, I’ve been able to make a few bucks finding a good home for baking paraphernalia.
I got an interesting response to one listing. An interested party asked if I’d consider donating some items to their non-profit that benefited foster families.
I checked out the website and everything seemed legitimate. So I responded, “Yes. We would love to support your efforts. Where can I drop off the items?”
They were only fifteen minutes away. I set up a delivery time and headed out. I knew where the recently constructed community was, but hadn’t yet been there. As I pulled in, I knew this would be interesting. A large sign announced, “Homes from $800,000.” I drove through the front gate, not yet operational.
I passed many beautiful new homes. Beautiful isn’t the right word. Gorgeous and expansive would be more appropriate. GPS led me to the drop-off address.
I pulled into the driveway and walked around to the front door. I thought to myself, “This is a million-dollar home.”
I rang the doorbell. The owner immediately answered and greeted me. She was friendly, gracious, and appreciative. She also added that she was selling lots of crafting supplies if I was interested. I said, “I’ll check and let you know.”
As I walked back to my car, I felt guilty for thinking, “You live in a million-dollar home, and you won’t buy $20 worth of supplies?”
That’s unfair. I don’t know these people. I don’t know anything about this home. I don’t know much about the charitable organization. I should more charitable. I shouldn’t rush to judgment.
But when I got home I checked Zillow. Yep, one million twenty-three thousand. 3,400 square feet. Wow. Just wow.
Okay, so if I had a mortgage on a million dollar home, I might be soliciting extra bucks for my charity, too. Equity on paper doesn’t necessarily translate into cash.
On my way out, the owner said, “I’m selling some craft supplies. Di-cuts and stamps. Real cheap. Let me know if you’re interested.”
You never know. You never know someone’s financial situation. Or their 501(c)3 organization. I know. I’m overanalyzing.
Charity is hard. It doesn’t make sense. It’s the right thing to do. It never quite feels right. Yet it feels right.
Not gonna worry about it. I think whatever I donate will help someone, so it is what it is.
Waite for it... 