Asking for donations can be a tricky business. While there are many generous people, it isn’t hard to find someone who is reluctant to give for any cause. After all, you can’t squeeze blood from a turnip!
Where in the world, did, the phrase come from? When I did a search, it appears it’s one of those proverbs that came out of nowhere. I forgot that “you can’t get blood from a stone,” is a variation on this, I wouldn’t recommend trying to get blood from either one.
One thing is for sure, the idiom paints a picture! It’s one of those phrases that struck me one day and inspired a cartoon. Since my wife and I have worked in the nonprofit world, I’m guessing we were discussing giving and volunteering.
The Cure for Stinginess
When we use this proverb, we are most likely thinking about stingy people. Whether it is out of fear, greed, or both, tight fists bring misery to our world. The cure is to remember what we are grateful for. This quote by Saint Ignatius drives it home for me.
“Be generous to the poor orphans and those in need. The man to whom our Lord has been liberal ought not to be stingy. We shall one day find in Heaven as much rest and joy as we ourselves have dispensed in this life.”
Saint Ignatius
In other words, what we give, or fail to give, will come back to us eventually. Besides, who wants to have a reputation as a turnip or stone?
I drew this several years back when clichés were on my mind. Turnips have always looked strange to me. Many come in purple and white, two-toned. I don’t know many people who are enthusiastic about turnips, although I do love a good serving of turnip greens. When I add some vinegar to the mix, I’m in heaven. That said, I think it’s still accurate that you can’t squeeze blood from a turnip.
Editor’s Note: I originally published this blog on October 6, 2015. I revamped and updated it for timeliness and comprehensiveness.
