Value of a Helping Hand

This week I’m going to go slightly off topic.

I was visiting a friend for dinner, when we got on the topic of her son, who is serving in Iraq, and the things that we take for granted that is no longer something he can take for granted. Simple things like toothpaste (i.e. - $8), the phone, internet (he pays $137/mo), etc. 

The conversation started when she mentioned that her son wanted her to skip sending him a care package, which she does twice a month, and send one to his buddy, Scott. My understanding is that this is something that Scott never gets and he wanted his friend to know that someone really cared about him. With that said, I spoke up and asked about what I  could do (how could I make a difference) that wasn’t a huge financial burden for me, at least at this point in my life, and we came up with some great ideas. 

My plan is to network with people I know to see if they or their company will pitch in for toothbrushes, toothpaste, chapstick, etc. I also plan to help with the preparation of the packages. These are just two examples of the many things that we can do that only cost us our time and energy. 

We all know these ideas are nothing new, but rather a reminder that we don’t always need to spend money to make a difference in someone’s life, including our own. Project Money is really helping me to understand that my time and energy invested in something is just as valuable as pulling a bill out of my wallet.   

Comments

[Heather H]

Way to go, Amy! That's a great example of giving back while staying on a budget.

[Rachel Seltzner]

Way to go Amy! I think it's great to continue to give even when you're strapped for cash - and try to keep a little budgeted for charities, etc. I think it helps keep you in a mindset of abundance, or at least "I have enough!" Stay positive and congrats on finding a way to contribute WITHOUT spending! Awesome!