Shadow Philanthropists

"The most truly generous persons are those who give silently

without hope of praise or reward."

Carol Ryrie Brink

Anderson Cooper was interviewing a man who wore sunglasses and a hat shading his face.  The man was known as J.R. and no one really knew anything about him other than he was a photographer changing perceptions in the world.

J.R. traveled to numerous countries, photographing the repressed as well as those who were  casting the stones.   Enlarging the photographs, he would paste the giant photos side by side on walls, buildings or anything available.  The point of course was to just view people as common human beings.  He had been deported on occasion, but often welcomed back once authorities understood his intent.  His thrust of course ... we are all the same when judgment and criticism are stripped away.

This was a curious and artistic approach moving me towards hope and remembering in spite of news coverage, there were numerous people in life contributing in an uniquely positive way.  The most outstanding element, however,  J.R. was financially supported by Shadow Philanthropists who wanted nothing in return ... no recognition, no favors, no attachment.  Yes, goodness is still thriving.