Making a Difference

Realizing we all have our ways of trying to make a difference, I just want to take this opportunity to share something I've noticed.  As the state of our nation continues to spiral downward, apathy, blame, and complacency have set in on many.  Wow!  I think I just discovered the ABC of despair, but that's not the topic of this article.

The Occupy Wall Street movement began the 99%, which became 98% about two years ago, and although I applaud their effort and solidarity, it hasn't changed Wall Street, brought a stronger economy, or strengthened the dying Middle Class.  It was when the 99% became the 98%, the idea occurred to me that there is another 1%.  We don't really believe our lives will be richer if The 1% shared their money.  As for the top tax rate being so low, that happened in the 80's.  It took 30 years and major recession for everyone to actually see the damage that lowering the top tax rate by nearly half has caused.  Why did it take so long?  Because the illusion was cushioned with a debt pillow.

The reality is, the "sit in" over Wall Street hasn't changed Wall Street.  Griping about Big Box stores and "only going when you have to" hasn't changed that monopoly, either.  The bottom line is, sitting and talking has never really changed anything.  We can discuss great ideas all day, and gripe about perceived unfairness til the "cows come home," but until we actually DO something that makes a difference, there will be no change.  There are people who have taken a different attitude about this situation and I am blessed to be associated with them.

  Beth Rank is sharing budget stretching ideas and pantry filling plans in a new section here at the Goshen Gazette, called Fiscal Fitness.  She has a heart for people and she has shared the fact that she has known hard times.  She is still actively in the work force, but takes the time to share the knowledge she has gained and the observations she makes.

Terrie Carpenter has taken a different approach in her resolve to work with what she has to enjoy life and she shares her endeavor in the "Bloom Where You're Planted" section of the Goshen Gazette.  Terrie is raising "edible house plants."  One of her talents is tending plants, so she is now tending plants that produce vegetables.  She has been sharing photos of her gardening journey.

Cole Davis and Zach Bauer have been sharing hunting endeavors.  These two gentlemen also provide for families in the mainstream workforce, as well as minister to and teach Torah Observant followers of Messiah.
I am so blessed to be associated with these people, not only for the G-dly fellowship and teachings they offer via internet, but in the fact that they share their practical application of what it is to be content with what G-d has given.   Not only do these individuals use their resources wisely, but they take the time to share their knowledge with others.