Last night, I watched Oprah’s television special about the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy For Girls. The sentiment seemed genuine but I was struck by the fact that with the school, its furnishings and even the girls clothing there was a focus on the superficial.

Don’t get me wrong I love Oprah and I’m sure this school will change the lives of the girls who attend. I just wonder if more girls could’ve attended had the surroundings not been quite so lavish.

On the other hand, I’m sure Oprah didn’t fund this all on her own and I know first hand when you’re raising money, it’s easier to sell bright and shiny.

I enjoyed the program, was moved by the stories and felt elated for the girls who got to attend. If I had the means I’d surely have donated so I guess it was successful.

Is this one of those cases where the end justifies the means?