A few days ago, I shared a story about an extraordinary woman who’s doing everything she can to feed some stray dogs—dogs that, unfortunately, haven’t been lucky enough to find a loving home. The post was a call to action for those who are willing and able to lend a helping hand.
Among the responses I received, one stood out:
“Why don’t you buy some dog food yourself? Everyone’s asking, but no one’s giving.”
It’s not the first time I’ve come across something like this.
Usually, these kinds of messages go straight to my mental “Junk” folder. I don’t dwell on them, I don’t care what X or Y thinks of me. But this time, the question stuck with me. And it got me thinking—hard.
I’ve been reflecting on it for days. Here’s what I’ve realized.
For me, the idea of contributing, of helping, of doing something that matters beyond myself isn’t a choice—it’s part of who I am. It’s been a constant thread in my life, weaving through everything I do. I don’t know where it comes from, and honestly, it doesn’t matter.
What I do know is that, whether I’ve had resources or not, if I’ve been able to help, I’ve done it. Sometimes without even thinking twice.
For nearly 16 years—since the day I officially registered my first business—I’ve been involved in all kinds of charitable initiatives and humanitarian campaigns.
Sometimes I’ve organized them myself; other times, I’ve joined someone else’s efforts.
I’ve donated money, time, and resources. I’ve even borrowed money to help when I didn’t have any to spare (not smart) and put myself last when necessary (not healthy, but that’s another story).
And no, I’ve never liked talking about it.
My close friends know this about me. I do these things for me, because they bring me fulfillment and give me a sense of purpose. Not for applause. Definitely not for validation.
But lately, I’ve started wondering if I’ve been wrong.
If, by staying silent, I’ve been missing the bigger picture—especially in the world we live in today.
And honestly, I’m questioning whether my silence is, in its own way, selfish.
Maybe some people need to see more examples of kindness.
Maybe people need to know there are ways of living where the greater good matters more than personal gain.
Maybe the world needs more proof that not everyone is relentlessly chasing profit at any cost.
Maybe people need to see others who do, not just those who talk about it.
Maybe inspiration can spark action in others.
And maybe, just maybe, if more of us (because I know I’m not the only one) were vocal about the good we do, we could make a bigger difference.
Maybe I should’ve replied to that person.
Maybe I should’ve told them that I’d already donated 20 sacks of food out of the 50 that were needed before I shared that post.
But maybe that’s not the point.
Maybe the real question is: What are we leaving behind? #makeamark
I don’t know yet if I’ll start talking more about what I do.
I’m still thinking about it.
But what I do know is that I want to live in a world where goodness is visible.
Where goodness inspires.
And if that means I need to make the things I believe in more visible, then maybe that’s what I should do.
Maybe it’s time to show that not all of us are in competition.
That “we can build a better world together” isn’t just a catchy slogan or a fleeting trend.
Maybe…
D.
