Widow's Mite

Have you ever wanted to be one of those people that could donate millions to charity? I expect you have. Me too. And someday, we may be able to do just that I expect, but in the meantime, there is a lot we have to offer nonetheless.

I think about the story of the widow's mite. The rationale is pretty simple. Though our contributions are not as immense or influential as another's, they are significant and meaningful to us. One reason that gives me hope is that even the small things that I can do now are recognized and appreciated. And together, the little things that we each contribute are collectively significant. Many people doing a little makes a world of difference. And sometimes, even our small decisions have enormous impact.

I think of the choices of our ancestors. Their lives were difficult and must have seemed small and simple and perhaps insignificant. Their decisions, inconsequential as they may have appeared, now have impacted dozens for good. Now we can look back and see the magnitude of their good choices, which have directly influenced my life and the lives of my family and extended family for good today. Thousands upon thousands will be blessed. I have always loved the story of the starfish.

You can't do everything. That's ok. You need only do what you can. That's the beautiful truth of the widow's mite.

Edward Everett Hale said “I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.”

What you have to offer is significant and of value to you, more so than the millions donated to charity. Generations untold will call your name blessed for your contributions and good choices.

My favorite part of the video above, "her faith overcame her fear and her hope overcame her despair."

That applies to each one of us. We are not alone.