Some years ago a friend sent me a letter belaying me for making a donation to a certain charity. My wife and I are both disabled and live on a fixed income, and my friend thought it stupid of me to give away money when we had little. Here is my answer to him.

My Dear Friend,

In my life of 70 + years I have been shot at, kicked, rolled & robbed, had my house burglarized, had rocks and other various airborne items strike me, and been cussed at by some of our society’s greatest citizens.

I have also been loved, blessed, helped, befriended and even worshiped by better people. In this world there are at lease 99 of every 100 people who are wonderful, and these people make life a blessing to live.

I have been stone broke at times, and rather well off at times. I have earned much money in my time, have none now, and yet, it means little to me. I could care less. I am retired and last year’s income was just over $33000. That is enough to give unto Caesar that which is Caesar’s, (and oh boy, have I given unto Caesar!) given to God that which is His, and lived with reasonable comfort and ease.

Of course, there are failures, but the success rate is enough to make my memories happy. I am thankful to have been given the privilege of life by The Great Creator, who went farther with me - He blessed every step! I failed ONLY when I did not do His will.

Now, in my senior years, I look back with wonderment on times gone by and wonder why He blessed such an ornery cuss as I. It has to be love, deep and enduring love. God knows I am not a saint. Mean as a snake and stubborn as a mule, always wanting to do everything My way. Yet, He loves me!

My greatest wish now is that I may, in any way possible, give some of this happiness to others who don’t enjoy that continuous rain of blessings which He has given me all my life. Those who criticize my poor handling of money should realize that every dime I "throw away" makes me happy in some way. When I go the Great Beyond, no one will fight over the estate I leave. I’ll do it MY way, and get rid of it now.

I will be sorry to see you die, for it will leave a blank spot in my heart. But, don’t think, not for one minute, that I’ll put many flowers on your grave, I shall not. If you are in need of some beauty while we both live, then perhaps I can offer a small blossom.

- - - Tom Nance