A
Pitch for Openness
Being
open or hidden about wealth has consequences not only for
our own lives, but for the lives of people we're closest
to, for our communities, and for society as a whole (given
that millions of people with wealth are making these choices
every day).
What
might happen if thousands of us who care about building
a better world became more open about our resources? Not
in the way advertisers would have us do it-to flaunt wealth
for power, prestige, and supposed sex appeal- but in a way
that opens real dialogue and is a force for healing among
people of all backgrounds?
I believe
this kind of openness could:
-
Give
hope to people who are not rich (about human nature, about
generosity) and change the culture's stereotyped views
about wealth.
-
Inspire
wealthy people who want to break out of the mold and do
more of social benefit with their lives, but aren't sure
how.
-
Challenge
the myth that money just comes from hard work, thus giving
people a more realistic sense of their worth, their finances,
and the need for policy changes.
-
Pave
the way for more positive partnerships between people
with wealth and social justice organizations.
-
Encourage
people of all backgrounds to have more honest conversation
about money with their family, friends, and colleagues,
thus paving the way for deeper relationships.
I have
tasted some these benefits. I'll never forget an African-
American woman I know who was raised poor and had spent her
life organizing women in poverty, who wept in appreciation
when I talked with her about my own experiences with money
and how they had led me to start More Than Money. We had been
working closely together for a year before I dared open this
conversation. She was amazed and clearly energized to discover
there were rich people who actually cared. I know many people
who have gained the courage to be more true to themselves
(and to be bolder givers!) because I have shared my money
story and encouraged them to share theirs. I'm still scared
each time I'm public-I recently said no to pictures in our
local paper, because I didn't want the guy at the gas pump
recognizing me-but the positive consequences far outshine
the risks.
How "out" to be about wealth is not a one-time
decision, but a decision made hundreds of times, day in
and day out. For me, the work of being open-getting through
my fears, having honest conversations, listening and changing-is
some of the most satisfying and potent work I do. It is
a contribution towards change that is most uniquely mine
to do. So come on out! There are hundreds of us here who
can guide and encourage you.
by Anne Slepian
Anne Slepian
is an award-winning
writer, presenter, and organizer on issues of wealth and
philanthropy. She and her husband, Christopher Mogil, are
co-founders of More Than Money. Together, they have authored
numerous publications, including Welcome to Philanthropy,
We Gave Away a Fortune, and Taking Charge of Our Money,
Our Values, and Our Lives.
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