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Posted by Michelle Anderson Feb 26, 2007 |
Over the weekend I watched "Crossing Borders," a movie about refugee and famine relief the world over. While the movie revolves around a socialite (Angelina Jolie) who is jarred out of her bubble of sweetness and privelige, it also shows in startling detail just how immediate the danger is.
We follow the two main characters from starving refugees in Ethiopia, to Cambodia to the former Soviet Republic. I found myself thinking quite a few times about my role. What is my responsibility to the people of the world, particularly as a Catholic.
In my parish we have both local and international ministries that give aid. We have a food pantry and during lent we have Operation Rice bowl in which we collect money for famine relief. But in addition to giving money, shouldn't I, as a world citizen, make it my business to find out just what geopolitical events are resulting in these famines? My answer is yes.
Secondly, if, having found out what world events result in such tragedies, do I have an obligation to make a difference with every vote? Yes, of course I do. Having said that, however, it's going to take more work on my part - researching politician stances and voting records etc. But, it is my responsibility after all...