[faeriechangling]

> Everyone on the supplicant end noticed this

I’ve downright gotten philosophical about it. The way my and other people’s suffering is used as a prop in other people’s stories.

The way I see it, if some people get personal satisfaction and a good reputation from being the stars, and their stardom leads to them helping people, I shrug. If you’re in a desperate situation you use the resources you have in front of you, and even say whatever it takes for them to help you more. I just don’t trust their motivations as people who “help the disadvantaged” can have INSANE saviour complexes and hurt those around them so they can heal them. Because they don’t actually care about you - they care about saving and being seen saving.

You’re perceptive to have caught on to the game so quickly. It took me years.

[generic92034]

On the other hand there is almost always a somewhat selfish motivation behind any extensive action. I would rather prefer someone being seen helping the poor rather than being paid to do the same.

Besides, in some regard the helpers might also be in need, even though not in a material sense.

[imp0cat]

There's actually a name for this - stunt philantropy.

https://restofworld.org/2024/nigeria-philanthropy-asherkine/

[circlefavshape]

> my and other people’s suffering is used as a prop in other people’s stories

I'm gathering material for a possible book (or series of blog posts) on the role of stories in people's identities and sense of meaning in their lives, and I'd be interested in hearing more about your perspective on this if you fancy talking about it? fromhn at demersal dot net

[imp0cat]

At least you caught on eventually. I was completely unaware until now.