A most difficult thread- helping a friend, Bill Hedin

[Matthew H]

Peter, that's fair, but it's good advice to not give based on condition. If I were worried about intentions, then I'd not do it. Giving without condition is sincere, IMO, and to look at it from another perspective, some of us might think that raising certain questions will taint the gift we gave, without condition, to help someone in a difficult time.

-Matt

[Peter_Spaeth]

Originally Posted by Matthew H

Peter, that's fair, but it's good advice to not give based on condition. If I were worried about intentions, then I'd not do it. Giving without condition is sincere, IMO, and to look at it from another perspective, some of us might think that raising certain questions will taint the gift we gave, without condition, to help someone in a difficult time.

-Matt

Matt I understand that point of view, but at the same time, there are countless good causes and people have to prioritize their giving. I assume that for many, need and use of funds does play a role in making those decisions.

[Kawika]

You guys sure pick your moments. Shame on you.

David McDonald

[trobba]

I don't know Bill, but have met Barry and respect his opinion greatly, as well as respecting Leon's as well. I donated without "advertising" it with a post (I guess I did now) largely because of Barry's words and Leon's support.

My understanding was Bill was in serious financial straits (so serious he was expected to sell his entire collection) and the money raised was going to directly help to pay for funeral expenses. Hearing he is spending over a thousand dollars on cards rubs me very much the wrong ~ no matter what the argument.

Part of this is exacerbated for me as I "gave" him some cards some time ago without charging him as he was in what I was led to be in a truly life-threatening battle, which may well have been the case.

I will not ask for my money back, but feel his judgment in this instance is really quite poor and unfortunately may negatively affect this type of giving and support for someone in the future that may be in an even greater position of need.