GIVE A LITTLE

Our affluent society has made our lives ones that are longer and generally less troubled with the struggle to survive than that of any earlier generation.

Nevertheless hunger and poverty, as well as, physical and mental challenges continue to and will probably always exist among us and in other parts of the world.

With only a little concern and effort on our part, we who have been given so much, might easily help someone overwhelmed by the struggle to even survive.

Can we not give a little of what we have in time, money or effort to those whose burdens are so much greater than any we will ever experience and be challenged by?

I include below a beautiful poem written by Sam Levenson* which was read by Audrey Hepburn’s son Sean at her funeral about her philosophy in life. We might all find some good advice and inspiration from it and incorporate some of it into our lives for the benefit of others and, actually more importantly, for ourselves:

“For attractive lips, speak words of kindness, 

For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people. 

For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry. 

For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her fingers through it once a day. 

For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.

People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; never throw out anyone. 

Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of your arm. 

As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself and the other for helping other.”

*Sam Levenson 1911-1980 American humorist, writer, teacher, television host and journalist.