Back to basics

This is a subject that has become so cliqued in our society, and so underappreciated; it is better to give than receive. In this country, that phrase is a big load of crap. I would use a more offensive or vulgar word to prove my point, but I think you get the idea. America is the greatest country in the world, but we don't always act like it. I was born on the 4th of July, and I consider myself as strong of a patriot as any. However, look at our country: big corporations take, take, take; sometimes illegally. Banks promise homes, only to raise rates and force foreclosures. There are so many more examples, but we are a greedy country. The greed here is quickly ruining the greatest country in the world.

Recently, my great-grandmother passed away, and it was her time. After all, she was 93, had lived a full life, and her mental faculties were diminished to a point where the good Lord above decided that her time here was lived enough. She left this world a wealthy woman. Her inheritance was left to her three daughters, one of whom is my dear grandmother. She didn't have to do this, especially being a widowed woman living on a very fixed income, but she generously decided to take a chunk of the money left to her and willingly give a piece to each child and grandchild. Now, understand that the first thought that passed through my mind was, "Wow, this is a nice chunk of change for me." However, the instant that thought passed through my mind, I was almost instantly overcome with emotion. Someone I love decided to give. Not because she had to. Not because anyone asked. Not even because anyone needed the help. She gave just because she wanted to give.

A simple act that is so lacking in our society. How many time have you been driving and seen a car on the side of the road with emergency flashers on? How many times have you stopped to help? I did. Once. Once out of about 50 times that I've seen cars that needed help. When I got to the car, the lady was pregnant, unable to push her car, and I offered to help. She declined, as she informed me that a sherriff was on his way to assist. But as I said good luck and turned to walk away, she stopped to tell me that I was the only person to offer help after being stopped for over a half hour. How many people saw her and thought, "sucks to be you" or "glad that's not me" as they drove right by? We are selfish, and we take so much, and rarley give. Agree or disagree, don't tell me that the majority of our society is a giving society.

I guess I am so grateful to have members of my family that truly care about others and give, without the hope of reciprication. We could all learn something from a widowed grandmother who just wants to see those that she loves be happy. Give something soon, no matter how small or effortless it may seem. Give because you have been given something, and someone else deserves to be given something too. The next time you decide not to give, think what you would be if those who have given so much hadn't given all they did to you. Give something.