WAMC: 51% Show # 1015 (2008-12-25)

51 % The Women's Perspective

51% Show # 1015

(2008-12-25)

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ALBANY, NY (WAMC) - It's easy to get discouraged, especially if you're feeling the effects of the recession. But this time of year tends to take us out of ourselves and gets us thinking about others. It's the season of giving. And I'll admit it - I'm a dyed in the wool Pollyanna at heart. I'm a sucker for the season. So today on 51%, we're taking a little break from bad news...not to hide, but to refocus on what really matters. First off, commentator Linda Lowen has some thoughts on philanthropy...

5:02 Philanthropy Linda Lowen

Linda Lowen is about.com's guide to women's issues.

Coming up on 51%, a trip up the river with a bunch of survivors...and a chance to talk with a woman who's devoted her life to others.

If you missed part of our show, you can listen to 51% anytime. Just download our podcast at wamc.org or call 1-800-323-9262 to order a CD - you'll need to know the program number. This week's show is #1015. (6:43)

Did you ever think of hip waders as a tool for recovery? Jen Nathan went out with a group of women this summer who are facing challenges with courage, humor, and a twinkle in their eyes.

3:36 Casting for Recovery Jen Nathan

Jen Nathan is an independent journalist in North Carolina.

As part of our National Science Foundation "The Sounds of Progress" series, narrator Kate Mulgrew introduces us to Dr. Jo Baker. She was an advocate for mothers, babies, and decent health care...another bright spot in a troubled time.

2:00 NSF #22 Baker

If you'd like to find out more or hear more in this series, visit www.womeninscience.org.

Finally today, meet Amma. She's considered a holy woman in India and by her students all over the globe. Her full name is Amma Sri Karunamayi. Because of her belief that each one of us is the embodiment of divine love, she has dedicated her life to spreading the message of peace and philanthropy. It's not just talk...she's established a free school and a free hospital in rural India. And whatever your faith, her message has meaning in today's world.

5:56 Amma Barnett

Amma is just one of many, many people from many cultures and many religions who are working to make this a better world. And perhaps her most important message is that all of us can do it, too. To find out more about Amma and her work, you can visit her website at karunamayi.org.

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