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I was asked why I did not give a rod with which to fish, in the hands of the poor, rather than give the fish itself as this makes them remain poor. So I told them: The people whom we pick up are not able to stand with a rod. So today I will give them fish and when they are able to stand, then I shall send them to you and you can give them the rod. That is your job. Let me do my work today.
Mother Teresa
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Providing immediate help is essential for those in need, even if it may seem like a temporary solution.

Mother Teresa's quote emphasizes the importance of addressing immediate needs before focusing on sustainable solutions. It highlights the idea that those who are struggling may not yet be in a position to help themselves, and that providing aid in the form of food or basic support is crucial. Once people regain their strength and stability, they can then be taught to help themselves, thereby shifting their situation from dependency to self-sufficiency.

Themes

HelpPovertyAidSupportSelf-SufficiencyEmpowerment

In practice

Example use cases

During a fundraising event, to emphasize the importance of immediate aid in humanitarian work.

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The poor are great! The poor are wonderful! The poor are very generous! They give us much more than what we give them.
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The biggest disease today is not leprosy or tuberculosis, but rather the feeling of being unwanted.
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