There are a lot of wonderful people out there, helping the less fortunate. But in some ways – for the good of the people they care for – attitudes need to be adjusted. I believe that’s especially true for those who support people with mental health problems.

Quoting a section of Philip Yancey’s book, Soul Survivor:

“…we in the West are still learning the difference between acts of charity and the more difficult task of changing a person’s self-perception. Too often our motives smack of paternalism. I, the educated, wealthy American, reach out in compassion to help you improve yourself.

“We see ourselves as on the side of Christ by giving to the needy. The New Testament makes it plain, however, that Jesus is on the side of the poor, and we serve best by elevating the downtrodden to the place of Jesus.”

marja