His challenge has always inspired me to pause and think for just a moment and ask, "Am I making the best of my time, talent, and treasure?" These challenging times we are all experiencing demand the best of every one of us. There are no longer free rides, slack time, or opportunities for wasteful spending. We must give careful consideration to the limited resources we control -- our time, talent, and treasure.

Despite the headlines, life is not all about how much we spent on Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Here are some Holiday considerations for those of us who are not the 1% living in plenty:

1. Time -- Make the best of your time by spending it with those whose love and friendship you value. Call or visit to make sure you tell them how much they mean to you. It isn't necessary to bring an expensive gift. Just set aside the time to say, "You are important in my life."
2. Talent -- We often underestimate our talent when it comes to making someone else's life better. Perhaps we can cook a meal for someone who is shut in; or help with repairs at the home of a friend; or volunteer to be a mentor. The talents we take for granted can make a big difference when shared with others.
3. Treasure -- We are all aware of the stark contrast between the haves and the have nots during these difficult economic times. I am always moved to contribute to the bell ringers from the Salvation Army at this time of the year. There are so many other opportunitiees to help the least among us -- even though our means are limited. These are times when "Every little bit counts" means a lot. Be as generous as your means allow.

Each of us can make a vast difference in somone else's life if we heed the simple admonition to "Make the best of your time, your talent, and your treasure."

Happy Holidays!

TrackBack URI for this entry

Comments (2)

Subscribe to this comment's feed

...
written by Judy a. Brown , December 12, 2011

I am a 67 year old Black Woman and as far back as I can remember, I have never met a Black person with a little pull in the Black neighborhoods/communities, made it to the top on the backs of our people and never once reach back to help those who are not wanting a hand out, but maybe be the ones who are asking how to to it for themselves. I have gone to my own race (Black) for help with my patents only to be told to contact some white business owner who only want to charge me two arms and two legs and leave with nothing to stand on dragging a huge debt behind me. Denver, CO being the main offender. We mostly own sticks in the mud, and after being able to move up and improve they move into the white neighborhood and can't afford the upkeep of their businesses and once again, we lose. I just want a chance to give back and hopefully won't be dead before given that opportunity if just one would meet with me and listen. I keep the faith and hope it's not to late for our people to overcome!!!!

report abuse

vote down

vote up

Votes: +0

...
written by Roger Madison Jr. , December 13, 2011

Judy, I feel your frustration. The challenges we face to overcome external barriers -- and those imposed upon ourselves -- are a part of the legacy of so manyt years of oppression. There has been progress, and there have been examples of collaboration to help others among us. Sadly, too many challenges, and not enough collaboration.

You mentioned patents that you have sought support for. Are these ideas, or actual registered patents? My experience is that this is a very tough arena, and often costly to transform an idea into a registered patent, and then into practical application. Only a small percentage result in great success. I would be interested to know about what you are trying to achieve, if you don't mind sharing your story.

Our community is designed to share ideas. I don't know how or if someone among us can help. Who knows what will come of the exposure? In any case, I wish you the very best of success.

Roger Madison

report abuse

vote down

vote up

Votes: +0

Write comment

Name

Email

Comment

smaller | bigger

Subscribe via email (Registered users only)

Write the displayed characters

Add Comment