Could my mother be called a philanthropist?

Question

We are Methodists. My mother retired about 7 years ago. Ever since she's had a full-time job at the church, where she's never seen a paycheck.

My mom does not do office work, oh, no. My mother goes out with the really poor, sick, and dirty. She's not affraid to confront abusive dads. She's not affraid to be around houseless people nor to tend to their needs.

She's 60 although most people would guess she's in the middle 40s. She takes trips to mountain regions in Mexico where the Gospel has never been heard. She does a lot of physical labor for the church. A lot more than most women her age.

People think of philanthropists as rich people writting checks for charity.

But considering my mom's backgroud, could she be called a philanthropist?

Answer 1

I'm a Methodist, too, and I think saint is a better title.

Philanthropist originally meant lover of people, but now it implies sitting off somewhere and just sending money--nothing down and dirty about these folks. There's a small sense that the money wasn't made in reputable ways--look up Zaccheus, Andrew Carnegie, and Bill Gates.

You're blessed to have a mother who loves others and has the stamina and courage to act on it.

Answer 2

I agree with Sarah, your mom does not need to be confused with a philanthropist, Saint would be better.  I know she must feel fortunate to be able to give back for the blessings she has had in her own life.  I know so many seniors who have taken on volunteer work once they retired and were done raising their families.  They are pretty much unsung but so much would be left undone if they weren't there.