Is the Economy Really Improving?

I was talking with a good friend of mine from out of town, who told me a heart wrenching story. She was in a place of business late one afternoon, when a man came in and asked to speak with a manager. The man was pretty average looking, middle thirties maybe. He wore a decent looking pair of slacks and a button down shirt that stuck to him in places, telling of a long day that was nearly behind him.

He was obviously tired and a bit agitated, wringing his hands unable to be still. When the manager came out to see the man, an all too familiar story emerged. The man had lost his job. He had a family to feed, and was looking for work - ANY work. He had been all over town looking for a way to earn an honest dollar simply to bring food home to his family that night.

The manager knew that his own business had dropped considerably and in fact, he was doing all he could to keep his doors open. All the manager had in his own pocket was $5. He gave it to the man who asked if he could at least sweep the floors so he could earn the money. You see, he was too proud to just take a hand out. The manager said it wasn't necessary, but the man insisted. He swept the floor making sure it was a job well done. Before leaving, he tucked in his shirt, walked over to the manager and shook his had, thanking him for the opportunity to earn the money.

There are many people out there right now who need an opportunity. They aren't looking for a hand out, but a hand UP. If you can help someone, even if you just need your garage cleaned or your grass mowed, I'm sure there is someone out there who would be very grateful for that opportunity.

Do you have a similar story? Can you tell us how someone has been helped? Please share your ideas and stories. We would love to hear them!