Sonspot

When the "no call' lists became available a couple of years ago, my wife and I added our names to the list. The solicitations promptly ended a peace quickly decended on our home.

However, nature really does abhor vacuums. That, or nature loves the sound of a ringing phone (always 5 min. after we finally get our son to sleep). Because the calls have started-up again.

This time it's not a pitch from a monotone telemarketer telling me about the joys of Master Card or MCI, but from "charity" groups. Specifically, in the span of 3 months I have received calls from the Firefighters, FOP, Paralized Vietnam veterans, some other veteran cause, and some other police union.

Now I have nothing against charity. I give to a number of different causes and only wish I could give more. Also, I gave to all those who called without hesitation. What bothers me though is three fold:

-The first is with the calling. I know it may not be as successful, but mail me a solicitation like everyone else. In other words, get in line, your needs are no greater than those of the other causes I support and they have never invaded my home with their requests.

-Secondly, I don't care if my pledged amount is lower than your lowest suggested amount to give is. Sheesh, who are you to tell me how much I should be giving in the first place?

-Lastly, all who have called, although I haven't specifically looked this up, are a government affiliated cause. Meaning that likely they are receiving support via everyone's taxes in some way. I'm sure that it's not enough to cover all the gaps, but is it so dire that you have to bother folks at home?

The only thing they will ultimatly gain with these tactics are to take the blessing away from the giver and give charites a bad name.