Yes

8 of 13

by Tena Kight

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In todays tough economy we could all use an act of kindness, especially one that helps to keep our "financial heads" above the rising recession flood. Would I take a pay cut to save my coworker's job? Yes. If I could spare even the smallest amount to help one of my fellow workers I surely would.

The details of each specific case can't be over looked when discussing this topic. I happen to work with people I consider friends. Our office is small and privately owned. There is no big corporate heads to accuse of overspending. We depend on each other to keep the money flow balanced. So if I'm helping out a co-worker, I'm not bailing out big business.

I admit my answer might be different if a corporate head was flying around the country in a private jet while asking me to sacrifice my income. The flip side of that is, if the heads of big businesses would practice fair budgeting and compassion, such as pay cuts themselves to save jobs, then America would be much better off.

The concept of "your brother's keeper" should apply in such difficult times as these. None of us are immune to the economic woes of today. The sad truth is that tomorrow it could be you or me needing that act of kindness. I do believe if we all are willing to do what we can for our fellow man kind then the "pay it forward" idea would catch on and everyone might benefit in the long run.

I would never suggest someone jump into such a big commitment without some guidelines. A time table would need to be set and upheld. I would not take a pay cut for the duration of my employment. We all hope the economy starts to clime back to a more acceptable existence soon. So I would give of my income for a set amount of time "like a year" but not indefinitely.

The economy aside, if someone in my office becomes ill or has a family tragedy, I would again jump to their aid. Our world is as good or as bad as we the people make it, so I hope I would try to make someone's world a little better in times of need. Things happen that we have no control over and knowing that there are still compassionate people willing to sacrifice for mankind is a great comfort. We shouldn't draw an invisible line around our money that says the kindness stops here. One great book states it like this,"The love of money is the root of all evil."

We need to consider the individual situation along with some essential guidelines to protect everyone from being taken advantage of, then put it all in writing (keeping it legal to avoid later problems.)

Those who understand that love requires action will work diligently and sacrifice often from all areas of life. Money shouldn't be the unspoken exception.

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