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        New Message Board Archives >> Jul-Sep 2003 >> Just Do Something........
        
(Message started by: TerryS on Aug 1^st, 2003, 2:16pm)

Title: Just Do Something........
Post by TerryS on Aug 1^st, 2003, 2:16pm

JUST DO SOMETHING

I once stopped behind several cars in an intersection. The winter
weather was icy cold and a strong artic wind blew relentlessly. Ahead
of me a young woman stood alongside the street rubbing her bare hands
together and dancing in place to keep warm. Beside her rested a sign
that read, "I have a baby and no food." She was obviously crying,
likely from the pain of the cold wind.

Homeless and unemployed people are a common sight in many of our
larger cities, and most motorists drive by without offering
assistance. They have no doubt been taught that giving money fosters a
dependent lifestyle, or the ready cash may be used to purchase alcohol
or another substance rather than the food it was intended for. Like
me, they may have been taught that one should give to a local charity
or through one's church, as these institutions can help those in need
far more effectively.

This, of course, is true, but I am reminded of the college students
who encountered a homeless man on the sidewalk. One of the students
took a couple of dollars from his wallet and handed it to the
unfortunate stranger. His friend commented, "Why did you do that? He's
just going to spend it on booze or drugs." The student answered,
"Yeah.like we're not!"

As I waited for the light to turn, I felt conflicted about that young
woman. Whether or not I should give money, she was obviously in need.
And whether or not she actually had a baby really didn't seem to
matter. I gave up guessing people's motives and analyzing their
stories long ago. It was cold. She was cold. And she obviously felt
she had to be there. On the other hand, I had no such needs, so I felt
conflicted. What should I do? Give her money? What was best?

As I wrestled with these questions, the window rolled down from the
car in front of me and a hand shot out holding a warm pair of gloves.
The driver took her own gloves off and gave them to the shivering
woman. I saw the young woman mouth the words "Thank you" as a broad
smile lit up her face.

I debated - the driver helped. I wanted to determine the BEST way to
assist - she did what she could. I did nothing. She did something.

I made myself a pledge that day to always do SOMETHING. Whether it is
big or small.just do something. Any something is better than nothing!

Educator Leo Buscaglia said, "Too often we underestimate the power of
a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment,
or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn
a life around." Don't underestimate what you CAN do! Each of us can do
something, and the something you do may be more important than you'll
ever know.

By Steve Goodier © 2003

Title: Re: Just Do Something........
Post by Elaine on Aug 1^st, 2003, 2:30pm

The things you find and post always touch me. They always make me think.

My Grandmother was very special to me and she taught me so much. One of the things she taught me was, do what my heart says and I will have a happy life.

The very few times I was sad were the times I did not do what my heart told me to do.

Thanks Terry I needed this today, I was battleing something and I think you helped me find the right answer, I going to do something.

Hugs
Elaine