Just about everyone has heard of the Golden Rule.  Paraphrasing here: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.  The concept appears in writings of nearly every religion, as well as the writings of ancient Rome and Greece.  Bottom line, it's a great philosophy.

I'd like to suggest a second Golden Rule: It is the responsibility of each of us to help improve the world around us.  In other words, we all need to leave positive footprints in the sand of life.  Follow my thinking.

You're reading this in the comfort of your home or office, both of which include conveniences never thought of a century ago.  Look at your clothing.  You're wearing things that would have looked positively alien in 1912.  And what's that you're reading my words on?  A computer?  Who had one of those before 1980?  All of these things are the result of discoveries by ordinary people who just kept looking for something better.  What a ton of courage that takes - and thank goodness they did it.

I hear you now.  "I don't have the knowledge, money or patience to invent great things."  Okay, but what you do have are thoughts, ideas, emotions, and energy, all of which are just as BIG.  Maybe you could apply them in one of these areas (appearing in no particular order):

1.  Animals in need: They improve our lives in so many ways.  Check out local shelters who need help.  Better yet, adopt!

2.  Social issues: What do you believe in?  Let your voice be heard, get your issue or candidate on the ballot.

3. Churches: Teach a class, sing a song, cook a meal.  There are tons of areas in which churches need helping hands.

4. Schools: Doesn't matter whether your kids are in kindergarten, your grandchildren are, or you don't have kids, schools need more help than ever these days. 

5.  Hospitals: Not everyone has lots of family and friends who will visit.  It could be you putting a smile on a lonely patient's face. :-)

6. Other volunteer organizations: There are tons - more than I have room to list.  Find one that matches your interests and abilities.

I know it will take courage to step out of your comfort zone and find ways to pay your debt to humanity.  But the world will be better for it and YOU will be better for it.  Now go do it!