I love this phrase - it reminds me of being in England. I wanted to give all our travel money to the homeless. They were so polite and proper in their, "Spare Change, Sir?" requests. Before our trip, I was informed by a friend not to give change to these people. I wast told the UK government provides a lot to them, so I should not feel guilty not contributing my own finances. It's a bittersweet blend of memories... and fyi, I didn't always take my friend's advice. My heart won, over my head, at times.
So - how does one decide where to put "spare change?" Of course, you can always horde it all yourself. Bulk up for that big, fat savings and hope that by the time you retire (people still do that, right?), you'll not have a care in the world.
But is that rewarding? Does that ultimately make you feel good? Is that "what Jesus would do?" I don't think so.
I wish I had far more money - not only because it would be nice to drive a car that I actually like, but because I feel there are so many good causes that need financial help. And even more seem in need in this economy.
Admittedly, I am a bit stressed by the requests for donations that Hope brings home from her school. It seems each week we are being asked to support something. We can't do it all.
I have to pick the causes that I believe in. Whole-heartedly. And I give as much as we can. A challenge is when I am giving to a cause that others don't support - and they say so. That's tough. Granted, we are all human and we obviously aren't going to all agree. But I take offense to someone responding with "I don't 'do' that" when it regards breast cancer... as much as "We ain't doing that" when it comes to supporting the not-for-profit local ballet company in Peoria.
You are welcome to disagree - but don't be snobby about it... and for the Lord's sake, use proper grammar! As, it WILL affect where else I spend my spare change. Like the above treatment from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory: I will now go directly to Fannie May Candies or pick up more Ghirardelli bars at the grocery store when in a pinch for chocolate. Chad and I have already begun planning how to create our own caramel apples this Fall, too!
What do you believe in? And what do you do to show for it? Money is the obvious way, but for those with restricted funds, go DO something. Collect others' change and donate it physically. Take extra food to a shelter when something you buy is on sale at the store. Donate items to Goodwill - don't just pitch the shoes in the trash if they are still wearable.
By actions, you inflict CHANGE. Good or bad. By donating, you encourage CHANGE... so do it for a good cause. Every coin counts as much as the way that you present it.
