Weekly Thought #3 (opinion)

I, like most of us, am a hard worker. I wouldn’t consider myself a wealthy person and at my age of 25, I don’t know if am working to define myself as wealthy, at least in terms of how we correlate wealth and money. However, I don’t hold grudges against those who strive for riches as this country is based on a capitalist system.
Five years ago, it may have been a different story. I was going to college, with hopes of driving that brand new car; talking on the most popular cell phone; owning the newest electronics; living in the big house; and belonging to that prestigious country club (although I still love golf, and may aspire to joining a golf course when I have more time). When I graduated college, I had a great job that allowed me those items I fancied, but could never afford. The irony is my level of joy didn’t increase and these objects never brought me the satisfaction I anticipated. Lesson learned: money didn’t bring me happiness (and yes, the lack of money can bring misery, but I am not going to dive into that topic).
The plasma flat screen TV may be nice to watch a Sunday football game but it doesn’t define who I am, and any one object shouldn’t define who any of us are. The events which I deem best are the birth of my two nephews; spending time with family who I don’t get to see all as much as I would like; bringing a smile to my girlfriend’s face; volunteering and donating to help the betterment of society; and as cliché as it sounds, knowing I, in some way, am making a positive difference in this world (regardless of how small and minute a difference).
I admit I never gave much thought to people standing outside the grocery stores asking for a donation to the cheerleaders; sending a check to the volunteer fire fighters; spending money on a car wash for softball; or anybody for that matter who was working to support a good cause. It wasn’t greed that motivated me away from these fundraisers; I really didn’t think I could afford to hand off my earnings. Those of you who know me understand I am the first to attack the high taxes or bad government decisions. However, the money government takes from us doesn’t end up where it can be used most. We see these political scandals and inefficient spending by our representatives, and we walk right by the band members who don’t get enough school funding to stay afloat. The solutions needs to be addressed on two ends: 1) we have to hold government accountable; and 2) we have to help out community members.
For those not accustomed to donating, and don’t be offended because I wasn’t, the best advice is to set aside 1% - 2% of your earnings for charitable purposes. My disposable income is limited, and I am not left with much after taxes, rent, car payment, insurance, bills and fuel. 1 dollar a day, set aside for a better cause, can make enough of a difference. Using change that you accumulate around your house is another way to give back to your community. It may be an unusual feeling at first; after the first few donations or volunteer hours, it gets easier and arguably addicting after awhile. As Randy Pausch (CMU professor and inspiration) stated, if you bring good to others, it eventually comes full circle.