“Emotion is any conscious experience characterized by intense mental activity and a high degree of pleasure or displeasure. Scientific discourse has drifted to other meanings and there is no consensus on a definition. Emotion is often intertwined with mood, temperament, personality, disposition, and motivation” – so Wikipedia.
Creating emotions and connecting emotionally is a well know concept when it comes to fundraising, but seldom it is spoken about in a broader context and reflected in the worlds of non-profit organisations. Especially when it comes to not so pleasant forms of emotions like let’s say jealousy this is the case. Hidden behind formal questions and considerations the poison of jealousy is a formidable enemy of cooperation between non-governmental organisation – jealousy regarding fundraising results or publicity is hardly spoken about but whispered behind the backs of those involved. Jealously can destroy great work done and prevent developments needed to be up to the standard needed serving the purpose of an organisation.
Another emotion not often spoken about in our circles is the tension between humbleness and ego-trips and the mixture of those two – standing in the lime-light and being thanked at every occasion can be like a drug taken and not being missed any more.
Being in Dresden to be part of the HOPE Gala for the 12th time I am so much aware that as the chair of an organisation like HOPE Cape Town I depend solely on the goodness of other people to be able to fulfil my role in this NGO. It humbles me – again an emotion – to see how many people dedicate time and money, prayer and good thoughts to allow me to represent and lead this organisation. Without the volunteer to drive a so-called VIP, – without the cleaners making sure that the venue is clean for the show, without the chefs preparing meals for the after show party – without those working hard behind the scene to make it happen – without all those running around – HOPE Cape Town would not be what it is. Gratefulness is the feeling here to mention, a deep gratitude to all involved.
Humans are complex and so is their emotional household. We should be always aware of what it is what carries me as a person – we should always honestly assess our feelings and see what makes us tick. Honest reflection is the key.
Only when we reflect with honesty we acknowledge us and others in all the complexity we live as human beings trying to serve human mankind and making this world a better place for all.
Filed under: Reflection, Society and living environment, Uncategorized, cape town, dresden, emotions, HOPE Cape Town, south africa
God, AIDS, Africa & HOPE 