RIPPLES

Watch a pebble tossed into water-

The ripples spread out and finally fade.

Our life is like the quiet pool.

Our first responsibility is to ourselves.(the center)

Our spouse comes next.

Our children, our parents, siblings, & family.

Our friends & neighbors-

Our fellow townsmen-

For most of us, our time, ability, and finances will seldom reach out much further than this. We can never be of service to others, if we do not take good care of our own health and well being first. Then the priorities!My few discretionary dollars will go further and aid more people, if they are spent as close to my home as possible and go thru as few hands and bureaucracies as absolutely necessary. Yes, I am sure there are needs, worthy needs, around our State, around our Rocky Mountain area, and in our country. And most surely in other spots around our World. But if we each care for the area where we reside, surely more of the dollars would arrive at the needed spot, and not be spent (lost) in the paperwork & expenses, or be in danger of being mishandled. Isn't that what we all strive for? To do as much good as is possible. To use our money wisely and care for those nearby, should not diminish our charity, but be seen as a thoughtful and planned use of our limited resources. In a perfect world, no child would be hungry or cold. Our limited funds will feed and warm more children, if they are spent closer to home. More bang for the buck!