THE news report, “Charity now a way of life” (NST, Jan 26) had some wonderful insights of human nature and how Malaysians generally have given to worthy causes generously, regardless of race or creed.

Being charitable has become a unifying force that is becoming a way of life in our society. Though being a melting pot of cultures and religions, in the face of catastrophe and human suffering, we have joined hands to pool our resources to face the onslaught.

The tsunami of 2004 brought out the best in mankind. It was a humbling reminder of how fragile and insignificant life was and how useless petty issues and conflicts were. There was a resurgence of generosity and unity among mankind. All over the world, people rallied to contribute generously for the people who were affected.

On the home-front, the local newspapers have been instrumental in highlighting deserving cases appealing for monetary aid for operations or donations for people living in impoverished homes.

And instantaneously, the monetarily well-endowed good Samaritans (regardless of race or creed) in our society have responded and contributed much to improve the welfare of the less fortunate in our country.

The news report featured Penang CARE’s Charity Through Sports programme collection of RM350,000 in donations from corporate bodies and individuals, which were equally distributed to seven charitable organisations.

Second Finance Minister Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop, who presented the cheques to the organisations, made some noteworthy statements that had much truth and valuable lessons.

According to him, we tend to accentuate our differences more than we do our similarities. According to science, the observable differences between humans are virtually indefinable, while biologically we are essentially the same.

Race is a mere social construct, a mixture of prejudices, superstitions, myths and beliefs. Blood donations and organ transplants that cut across race and creed prove that we are biologically the same.

Another truth expounded by the minister was a remark by American comedian Bob Hope: “If you haven’t got any charity in your heart, you have the worst kind of heart trouble.”

Philosophers, religious scho-lars and scientists have been propagating that a heart full of hatred, jealousy, the inability to forgive and evil thoughts can affect your physical well-being.

The sickness and diseases that afflict us, to a large extent, are caused by the unhealthy thoughts that are embedded in our heart.

The more man meditates upon good thoughts, the better will be his world and the world at large. If there is anything better than charity, fasting and prayer, it is definitely keeping peace and good relations among one another as quarrels and bad feelings destroy mankind.

Source: NST – January 29, 2008