Where does your security lie? part two (2)Written by DJ and Stephanie
"So long you can sweeten another's pain, Life is not in vain," wrote Helen Keller.Keller certainly understood emotional pain.You have likely observed that in this selfish world, it is easy to 'shut door of one's tender compassions' and ignore needs of others.(1 John 3:17).Yet, you are probably aware of this reality: Although we fully intend to love one another , we often overlook opportunities to relieve others' pain.That may simply be because we are not aware of their needs. EMPATHY is key that can unlock door to our kindness and compassion.What is EMPATHY? One dictionary says that empathy is "identification with and understanding of another's situation, feelings, and motives." "It is a mistake to think we listen only with our ears, it is much more important to listen with mind, eyes, body and HEART, unless you truly want to understand other person you will never be able to listen" Mark Herndon Today's world is often marked by a spirit of bravado and confrotation or by temptation. A person who flees from a situation is generally regarded as weak or cowardly. He may even become subject to ridicule. However, Bible makes it plain that there are times when running away is both wise and courageous.That is Jesus Christ's Disciples.(Matthew 10:23).
| | Michigan's Poor Children Face An Uphill BattleWritten by Brian McAfee
MUSKEGON -- Michigan's poor are having an increasingly hard time making ends meet, according to a recently completed study, and numerous social service organizations throughout state.According to 2003 Market Basket Survey (which measures buying power of poor), cash assistance and food stamps, which make up all poor receive, covers only 5 percent of income needed to pay for food, clothing and housing. One year ago, Public Assistance provided 60 percent. "That's a very dramatic drop, one I haven't seen in seven or eight years that we've been doing this," stated Ellen Speckman-Randall, executive director of Michigan County Social Services Association, which conducted annual survey. From a Muskegon Chronicle article on subject: "According to survey, a family of three would qualify for $9,830 a year in government cash assistance, food stamps and a back-to-school clothing allowance. That same family would spend an average of $18,137 in rent, utilities, transportation, food and clothing." Cash assistance grants have not increased for ten years under conservative Republican Gov. John Engler. And now, with a new governor, Jennifer Granholm, improvement is unlikely because of state's projected $1.7 billion deficit. Child and Family Associates see an urgency in public need particularly for children. One reported suggestion is an added one-cent tax on each can of beer, to generate $20 Million, with money to be used to increase back-to-school clothing allowance from $25 to $100 -- much more than just this is needed to ensure well being of poor children.
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